A New Tradition Takes Root

For over a decade and a half, the Kerry's Kids and Teens Triathlon has been a staple of summer in Goshen, drawing in 250-300 young participants each year. It's been a platform for fostering not only physical fitness but also a sense of accomplishment among the youth. This year, however, the unexpected pool closure posed a unique challenge, prompting the Goshen Parks team to think outside the box—or in this case, outside the pool.

"We wanted to keep the spirit of the event alive, even while the triathlon was on hold," shared Kim Stephens, the Recreation Director of Goshen Parks. The solution? A mud run that promised not just a challenge but a whole lot of fun, making use of Pringle Park's versatile landscape.

The Thrill of the Course

The mud run, designed for kids aged 5 to 18, was a thrilling journey from start to finish. Participants slid down a hill into a sea of foam and mud right at the start, setting the stage for a day of messy adventures. The course was dotted with various obstacles:

• A tire obstacle course that tested their agility.
• A climbing wall that demanded strength and courage.
• A belly crawl under pennant-laden strings through thick mud.
• A final dash through a series of inflatable tube rafts.

Each participant emerged at the finish line not just with mud-streaked faces but also with medals gleaming around their necks, symbols of their perseverance and joy.

Community and Camaraderie

The Anglemeyer brothers, Everett and Forrest, from New Paris, were among the enthusiastic participants. Regulars at the Goshen triathlon, they found the mud run to be a delightful alternative. "It was super fun and messy!" exclaimed nine-year-old Everett, his excitement palpable.

Their father, Scott Anglemeyer, commended the Goshen Parks for their exceptional organization. "The parks and their events are always top-tier," he noted, reflecting the sentiment of many parents who appreciated the creative pivot from the traditional triathlon.

Future Prospects: Muddy and Bright

The overwhelming success of the mud run has opened up new possibilities for Goshen's summer activities. While the triathlon is set to return next year, the mud run has carved out its own niche, promising to be a fixture in the community's calendar.

"We're looking at making this an annual event, alongside exploring other pool options for the triathlon," Stephens revealed. The dual offering of both events next summer is a tantalizing prospect for the youth of Goshen, promising more challenges, more fun, and yes, a lot more mud.

Celebrating Community Spirit

The inaugural mud run at Pringle Park was more than just a substitute event; it was a testament to the community's ability to adapt and thrive in the face of unexpected changes. It showcased the power of creativity in community engagement and the importance of providing diverse, inclusive recreational activities for all ages.

For those looking to join in next year's muddy escapades or the triumphant return of the triathlon, staying tuned to the Goshen Parks Department's updates will be key. Whether it's sliding down muddy hills or sprinting to the finish line, the adventures that await in Goshen are sure to create lasting memories and instill a love for active living in the community's youth.