Race participants cross the finish line. Photo by Abbey Wicks

FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) – Families with young children flocked to Phoenix Park on Saturday, July 25 for the annual Summer Fun Run sponsored by the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District (FORPD).

Along the 1.2-mile course, participants encountered a series of obstacles including an inflatable water slide, color stations, a goo gauntlet and other interactive challenges. Volunteers staffed obstacle stations and helped ensure participant safety.

The Human Car Wash presented by Waterfly Car Wash was one young participant’s favorite obstacle. Others enjoyed the Dirt Derby Dash, which utilized the park’s bicycle park and encouraged participants to conquer rolling dirt mounds, balance beams, twists, turns and rugged terrain.

To embrace the spirit of summer fun, runners were encouraged to wear vibrant colors, tie dye or come dressed in matching attire. Many runners ended the race covered in colored goo and dust, while others were drenched from water activations. By noon, temperatures were nearing the 90s.  

The 1.2-mile course featured obstacles including an inflatable water slide, color stations, a goo gauntlet and other interactive challenges. Photo by Abbey Wicks

After crossing the finish line, participants enjoyed an ice cream treat and party in the park. Booths from Fair Oaks Family Taekwondo, FORPD, Stretch Zone and Waterfly Car Wash provided information, resources and community connection.

According to recreation manager Nick Davison, there were a total of 256 volunteers and eight runners at this year’s event. The event increased by about 10 percent from last year, the district reported. Cost to participate ranged from $20 to $30, depending on the time of registration.

The district’s goal with the Summer Fun Run is to provide a fun, active community event that encourages outdoor recreation, brings families and neighbors together, and creates positive experiences in our parks, Davison said.

The district sponsors additional running events throughout the year, including the Lake Natoma Trail Run which took place in June and offered 5K and 10K races.

Summer events will continue in Fair Oaks. The youth NFL flag football league returns Aug. 15 for boys and girls ages 6-14.

The Dueling Pianos fundraiser benefiting the Don Ralls Memorial Scholarship will take place on Sept. 12. The event, which brings together some of the region’s finest pianists for head-to-head face-offs, is intended for adults 18 and older.

The 21st Annual Fair Oaks Chicken festival returns Sept. 19. Known as one of the district’s largest events each year, the festival brings a day of family-friendly activities, craft and community vendors, live music and more to Fair Oaks Park each fall. 

For more information and a full calendar of events, visit: www.forpd.org/.