Farmers Branch celebrated its first Spooky Dash on Saturday, Oct. 10, turning the city’s historic park into a lively Halloween‑themed race venue. The event attracted roughly 490 registrants, including about 350 runners in the timed 5K and 140 participants in the 1‑mile fun run.
Course and community participation
The race kicked off at Farmers Branch Historical Park. The 5K route wound through Gussie Field, Watterworth Park, Mustang Station and the Branch Crossing neighborhood, showcasing local scenery while offering a safe, well‑marked course. The fun run stayed closer to the park, encouraging families and costumed participants to enjoy a shorter, festive distance.
Age range was impressive: 5‑year‑old Fredi Gore was the youngest runner, while 89‑year‑old James Thurston proved that age is no barrier to community involvement. Runners traveled from across the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex, and at least four participants came from out‑of‑state, underscoring the event’s regional appeal.
Winners and highlights
Eighteen‑year‑old Maximus Garza of Carrollton claimed the overall 5K title, with fellow Carrollton teen 16‑year‑old Lilian Pena taking the overall female honor. Costumes ranged from a black‑and‑white prison uniform to a skeleton and an inflatable pink unicorn, adding a playful Halloween spirit to the competitive atmosphere.
City officials praise the turnout
Josie Avila, Farmers Branch’s community events manager, called the turnout “really good for our first year.” Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Maria Minter echoed the sentiment, noting the extensive logistics required and declaring, “For a first‑year event, I don’t think this could have gone any better.”
Mayor Terry Lynne also praised the event, describing it as “an excellent first event for the city.” He highlighted how the 1‑mile fun run attracted families in costume, while the 5K drew serious runners, saying, “People are really running hard.”
Family stories and personal milestones
Local residents Lucy and Matt Gore used the race as a family outing, introducing their three children to community running. Lucy praised the route as “beautiful” and “safe,” while Matt appreciated the chance to see neighborhoods and fellow citizens.
Long‑time runner Hans Meyer, who is expecting a daughter in February, completed his first 5K with encouragement from volunteer Emeralda Morales, who held a handmade sign proclaiming him a champion for the upcoming baby.
Spooky Dash as part of Fall Fest
The Spooky Dash was a centerpiece of Farmers Branch’s new Fall Fest, a broader celebration that brings together families, volunteers, sponsors and local businesses for a morning of exercise, costumes and community spirit. The event’s success signals strong resident support for future city‑wide festivals and health‑focused activities.
With high participation, positive feedback from city leaders and a blend of competitive and family‑friendly elements, the inaugural Spooky Dash sets a promising precedent for Farmers Branch’s annual calendar.
Original reporting: Branch Herald (Carrollton / Farmers Branch, local news) — read the source article.
