The Franken Frenzy 5K

Oh boy… where to begin?! The inaugural Lake Orion Franken Frenzy 5K had all the hallmarks of an ordinary race with a Halloween flair and then some. Imagine this: Ten days before Halloween, I stood on Canterbury Village’s starting line surrounded by people dressed up like ghosts or wearing costumes from movies–Batman in particular—who were out in force for this event, possibly debating whether running as one was worth their while!

The atmosphere was electrifying—or, should I say, haunted? This race featured three races—10K for braver souls, 5K, and a family mile–that promised an eerie good time. Polly Ann Trail proved itself worthy, but now it looked even spookier than usual for Halloween fun.

Now, let’s address the weather gods. Despite what was forecast, the rain decided not to arrive as expected and left behind an overcast, windy, 45-degree scene for Michiganders—almost tropical! Our race was scheduled to start promptly at 8 AM, but due to technical gremlins, we had an unexpected 30-minute delay before finally taking place, yet once again, our fair race director made the call so that no one missed out.

The “starting gun” (the Race Director’s countdown from 10) went off, and we began running over pavement and trail. Polly Ann Trail became familiar to most runners, while 10K runners enjoyed extra travel through Orion Oaks for added enjoyment, like trick-or-treating with candy corn or full-sized candy bars on Halloween; each choice has its challenges!

Not to forget the amenities–indoor restrooms without lines (a runner’s dream!), hydration stations offering Gatorade and water, and post-race rewards such as donuts and pizza—it was almost as though Halloween were offering us their wayward rain forecast with treats!

And the awards? Well, I was thrilled to receive the Frankenstein Finisher award, which I affectionately refer to as Frankie, while age group winners received a framed version as souvenirs of their race experience. Pre-race, I picked up my packet at Hanson’s Running Store smoothly without incident; by race morning, I was completely ready!

Now for some boasting: I made history, taking first in my age group, eighth out of all gents, and 15th overall with a chip time of 26:15.3. That is an 8:28 pace–not bad for someone as old as me!

Franken Frenzy 5K was an overwhelming success on its inaugural run. A delayed start was just a minor glitch in an otherwise exciting event; behind the scenes, people orchestrated a spectacular race featuring fantastic food, prizes that could rival anything found elsewhere, and volunteers that, more often than not, turned out more treat than trick. Hats off (or should I say witch hats off?) to the team! Making my return next year like vampires visit blood banks!

Franken Frenzy 5K (4X Speed) Video of Race

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Shot with a Insta360 GO 3 Action Camera

Franken Frenzy 5K Photo Gallery

RECAP

As soon as the morning fog lifted, Canterbury Village became a racer’s haven, with Halloween spirit adding an extra thrill to the Franken Frenzy 5K. Not only was it an opportunity to run on legendary trails, but it was also an unusual chance to race amid all of the festive decorations and glowing skeletons at the finish line—they symbolized our journey from starting horn to triumphant crossing of the finish line!

Canterbury Village and the other sponsors of the Franken Frenzy 5K and 10K not only demonstrated community support but also showcased Lake Orion’s hospitality; their contributions, coupled with delicious post-race treats from Yates Cider Mill, brought warmth to a cold October air and left everyone tasting locally-inspired deliciousness! This inaugural race wasn’t simply a run; it was an opportunity to celebrate community, endurance, and all of life’s beautiful pleasures that come with autumn.

A big Thank You” to the following sponsors of the Franken Frenzy 5K in Lake Orion

• Canterbury Village
• Hanson Running Shop
• Yates Cider Mill
• Ennis Center
• Aaron Palaian (Race Photographer)
• Standard & Co. Cafe
• La Vida Massage
• MIBodyWorks
• PakMail
• The Switch Haus
• SilverFox Barbershop (my barber)
• The Orion Grill