“This is a race unlike most other races,” said Chad Whaley, media specialist for Green Door Media. “Walkers and runners dress up as Santa and participate in this event.”
This is the first year this national race is coming to Sandusky, however it takes place annually in larger cities like Chicago and Indianapolis.
Want to go?
WHAT: Santa Hustle Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk
WHEN: 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 16, 2012
WHERE: Castaway Bay, 2001 Cleveland Road West in Sandusky
COST: $65 for half marathon and $45 for 5K
INFO: santahustle.com/cedar-point/
“It is great that a national event like this is coming to our area,” Whaley said. “It really helps bring attention to our community and shows people that we are a year round destination spot.”
Participants are given a hat, beard and Santa t-shirt before the race and are encouraged to dress as Santa when they race. People are also invited to bring their own Santa outfit and the best costume will win a prize after the race.
The races will start and end at Castaway Bay. Both the 5K and half marathon will take participants through the Cedar Point Causeway. The 5K will be 3.1 miles, while the half marathon is 13.1 miles.
As runners and walkers participate elf volunteers will be on-hand throughout the course to provide them with water, cookies and candy.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Volunteer Center or Erie County and volunteers, participants and spectators are encouraged to bring new, unopened toys for the Toys for Tots donation boxes that will be setup along the courses.
“At the end of the race there will be an after party at Castaway Bay,” Whaley said. “Awards will be given to the best costume, as well as the top racers from different age groups.”
The after party will also have a cash bar, holiday music and food available for purchase.
“It is going to be a really fun family event,” Whaley said. “Whether you are a serious runner or just doing this to get some exercise, it will be a really fun event that everyone will enjoy.”
To register ahead of time for the Santa Hustle Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk, visit santahustle.com/cedar-point.
