Race organizer Bill Henning with winner Ryan Van Dame.
The first Frachthaus Zer0.5K is in the record books.
More than 130 runners and walkers of all ages and capabilities—from as far as Bethlehem and Lebanon, Pa.—joined in the tongue-in-cheek "race," sponsored by Discover Lansdale Sunday afternoon. A half-dozen more paid a premium price to ride the route on a customized, motorized picnic table laden with shrimp, chocolate-covered strawberries and other delicacies.
Mayor Garry Herbert addressed the racers massed at Round Guys Brewing, telling them that these kinds of unique and fun events help make Lansdale a great community.
Registered racers could start off with a beverage at Round Guys, rest halfway at the Lansdale Library with pretzels and water, and enjoy a Well Crafted beer, Cannoneers bratwurst and other refreshments just past the Borough Hall finish line, in the lot at the historic Freight House. Participants also received a complementary T shirt and race medal.
All funds benefit Discover Lansdale's efforts to restore the stately stone Freight House, which played a crucial part in the borough's economic growth and history.
The official winners: Ryan Van Dame in 1st, followed closely by John Ernst V in 2nd place.
The Frachthaus Zer0.5K was originally scheduled as part of Lansdale's Oktoberfest celebration Oct. 27, which was canceled due to the death of longtime Parks and Recreation director Carl Saldutti. The scaled-down race portion was rescheduled for Sunday, Nov. 4.
The success of the day makes it likely the Zer0.5K may become an annual event as part of the town's future Oktoberfests, according to Discover Lansdale.
Local businesses supporting the event included Round Guys Brewing Company, Well Crafted Beer Co., Cannoneers Sportsmens Club, and The Print Shop USA.
(Editor's note: Bruce Schwartz is a board member at Discover Lansdale.)
See also:
Lansdale Zombie Walk Cancelled Due to Forecasted Storms
Lansdale Prepares for Fall Harvest First Friday
Discover Lansdale Announces Details for 2018 Chili Cookoff
