The 22nd Annual Great Pumpkin Challenge Raises $35,000 to Benefit Saratoga Bridges

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Saturday, October 15, the 22nd Annual Great Pumpkin Challenge was held in the Saratoga Springs Spa State Park. With close to 1,000 participants who ran, walked or rolled, $35,000 was raised for Saratoga Bridges’ non-funded or underfunded programs and services. The 5k and 10K races resulted with 5K winners, Ramon Dominguez from Saratoga Springs and Elizabeth Predmore from Ballston Lake. The 10K winners were, Ethan Carey from Queensbury and Dana Bush from Saratoga Springs. First, second and third place prizes were given out by age group. 

The event featured NET Chip Timing from Albany Running Exchange, homemade refreshments made from  individuals at Saratoga Bridges and donated food and beverages from Hixny, Uncommon Grounds, Bimbo Bakeries USA, Hannaford, DeVoe’s Rainbow Orchard, Healthy Living and Fresh Market. The event also hosted a costume contest and favorite pumpkin contest decorated by members of Saratoga Bridges during their day and residential programs. Many “Bridges Buddies” participated in the 5K upon completing the agency’s Walking and Wheeling Program. This initiative was developed by their wellness committee to pair staff and individuals in a 4-week training program leading up to The Great Pumpkin Challenge. Plus, over 120 people volunteered from BOCES’ Criminal Justice students, Goldman Sachs’ Community TeamWorks, Saratoga Spa Catholic and Saratoga Bridges staff, board members and friends. With sponsors, event organizers, volunteers, local food shops that donated and over 1,000 participants, this event highlighted a true community effort. Those that walked, ran, rolled or just helped the event run smoothly to raise funds, reflected Saratoga Bridges’ mission to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities in order for them to pursue their life goals through knowledge, collaboration and experience.

For people who missed out on participating in the 22nd Annual Great Pumpkin Challenge, they can still do so virtually by Friday, November 4 at www.saratogabridges.org.  For $30, they will get the long-sleeve moisture wicking shirt and can use the official course – www.saratogabridges.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/GPC-2022-Updated-Map-for-Web.pdf through the Saratoga Spa State Park or at location of their choice.