_ The 2024 Dash and Deciduous 5k trail run:

Saturday, June 1st 2024, 9:30 AM Start

The Uptown Gentlefriends present the Dash and Deciduous 5k trail run at Crystal Lake Park. This is a super secret FREE timed FATASS 5k. A 'fatass' is basically a glorified group run without all of the flare of a typical race. Registration is required due to the field size being limited to 40 runners. Once the field limit is reached additional runners will go on a waiting list and be added randomly. Even though the Uptown Gentlefriends provide all resources out of their own pockets this is largely a runner supported event and it's through runner donations that we use to make it even better! Donations aren't required but 100% of donations will go to the runners.

AWARDS:
A handmade award will be given to the top male and female. Age group awards will be available for both male and female in the following age groups; 29 and Under, 30 to 39, and Masters (40+). "Easter eggs" will be hidden in various spots along the course for runners to find which can be returned for a small prize (If the finder also wins an age group award, prize will be given to next highest finisher). 

All-Time fastest at the Clayton Park course: http://bit.ly/UGFfastest
Top Male at Crystal Lake Park; Eric F. - 24:20
Top Female at Crystal Lake Park; Eileen M. - 33:35

COURSE:
Do not expect to get a 5k PR at this course. This is a fun timed group run. Beginners may find the course very challenging with around 300ft of combined elevation climb with a few sections loaded with ankle twisting roots and some extremely dangerous short but steep hills. Veteran trail runners will find the course fun and challenging with a few short runnable sections that will allow you to gain a lot of ground on the leader (or keep the lead). The course will be well-marked and no one will get lost. There will be a water station at the halfway point. 

The course is spectator friendly. Cheer on your friends and family at the start and then again at mile 0.50 before the runners enter the woods. Then you have the option to cheer them on again by taking a short walk to the 0.8 mile mark just before they enter a series of dangerously steep but short hills. Mile 2.1 on the course is the last chance you'll be able to cheer on your runner to give them that last push before heading back to the finish line to congratulate them. 

Refreshments will be served post-run at the sign-in area near the finish line and awards will be given shortly after the conclusion of the run.

Thank you for participating in the Uptown Gentlefriends 5k. The parking area is tiny so we STRONGLY encourage carpooling. This is a small but competitive fatass club run and you are responsible for your own safety. Crystal Lake Park is a fun place to run, it is small but this 5k uses the most challenging trails in the park, going down a couple of the steep hills at speed can be EXTREMELY dangerous. I would consider myself a veteran trail runner and at least two of the downhills can be intimidating. Be careful!

- John Beck
Run Organizer

Uptown Gentlefriends on the web:
http://www.uptowngentlefriends.com/

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