Oct. 31, 2023 By Iryna Shkurhan
Bayside Historical Society’s 22nd annual Totten Trot 5K race gathered over 200 costume-clad runners on Saturday, Oct, 29 in Bayside.
The Halloween themed race looped contestants across the historic Fort Totten Park, which faces Little Neck Bay. The 3.1 mile race started and ended at the landmarked Officer’s Club building which houses the Bayside Historical Society.
Runners passed several historic buildings from the 1800s during the 5K loop. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
The 501st Legion’s Empire City Garrison, a “Star Wars” costuming organization, also made an appearance and posed for pictures with runners. The volunteer costume enthusiasts fund and build their own costumes from scratch.
Iconic Star Wars characters posed with others in costume. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
For tiny tots and kids up to 12 years old, a shorter distance sprint was also held after the main event, which is was one of many fall themed events scheduled for the fall.
Timing and scoring of the USATF certified course was provided by elitefeats where contestants can view their rank. There were 214 participants in total, but not all attendees were registered to run.
A mom and son dinosaur duo raced their way through the loop. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
Some families showed up to the Halloween themed race in character. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
Not all costumes took the same approach. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
The kids had a chance to compete in their own designated race. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
A range of costumes could be found at the 5K run. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society
While costumes were encouraged, they were not required to compete in the race that drew hundreds. Photo courtesy of Bayside Historical Society