From leaping over a wall of hay bales to army crawling through the mud, participants in Fernbrook Farm’s first Farm Run will have to face a number of obstacles in the 5K race, set for Sept. 22.
The Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center is set to host the race, which is designed to be more fun than challenging for participants.
Communications director Tina Williams explained that the center focuses on providing hands-on educational experiences, and the race will encourage participants to make connections with the natural world.
“In an age when kids are detached from nature and plugged into technology, it’s important for them to gain a sense of compassion for the environment, and to make a connection to agriculture and sources of healthy food,” Williams said.
All race proceeds are set benefit the nonprofit education center and its programs. The center gives children opportunities to get dirty and play safely while exploring nature, opportunities that urban youths and underprivileged families might not otherwise have the chance to enjoy.
The race isn’t about time, though, Williams noted, and is designed more as a day to celebrate friends, family and the great outdoors.
Other expected race obstacles include a log jump and creek climb, and the Chesterfield Fire Department will be present to hose people down after the race.
Registration is available for a 9:30 a.m. farm run for ages 11 and older, and for an 11:30 a.m. mini mile run for ages 6-10.
Fernbrook is located on Route 545 in Chesterfield Township, three miles east of Route 206 in Bordentown. To learn more about the race or register, go online to fernbrookeducation.org or call the education center at (609) 298-4028.
—Jessica Oates
