Gourdy's Pumpkin Run - Columbus, OH

Gourdy's Pumpkin Run is marketed as "Your Favorite Fall Tradition" for good reason. It's the kind of fun race that you look forward to all year. And they have communities on both Facebook and Strava that keep the energy and training going year round.  There are organized training runs throughout the year as well as virtual training runs that you can earn medals for completing.

The event itself is well organized. Packet pickup is a breeze, and the swag is some of my favorite. I love my pumpkin tech hoodies - they're perfect for fall workouts (and volunteering at school Halloween parties).

Race day is so full of energy. The riverfront downtown location is perfect for a Saturday morning race - and the park is a sea of excited kids and adults of all abilities and paces, wearing their hoodies (though my team skipped the hoodies this year because it was in the upper 60s). The high attendance does mean, though, that parking can be a nightmare.  It's definitely worth showing up a little early to park - which isn't such a big deal because of the later start time (an extra perk for those of us who like to sleep in on weekends).

The course is a scenic route through downtown - all well maintained and well marked. Crowds of runners and walkers flood the streets - so be prepared to weave through the traffic (some are Tough Pumpkins - carrying a pumpkin through the course for an additional medal). And be sure to keep an eye out for the photographers along the course.

After the race, finishers get a bottle of water, a small cup of cider, and a pumpkin to take home.  There isn't a fancy after party - and no extra snacks - but the crowd tends to stick around anyway because it's just fun to hang out in the park.

Overall, this is just an enjoyable experience.  I don't see it as a serious race, necessarily - more of a fun fall event. But it's a great way to spend a Saturday morning in the fall with friends.