It’s okay to ‘boo’ at Bayside race

Long-distance runners are often noted for being a little, well, eccentric and soon they will have a chance to manifest their individuality in Bayside.
The Bayside Historical Society is holding its 6th annual “Totten Trot” in Fort Totten on Sunday, October 28. The five kilometer (5K) race will wend its way around the margins of the historic fort, affording participants a splendid view and nice breeze off Little Neck Bay.
Coming as it does on the weekend before Halloween - this year October 31 falls on a Wednesday - the organizers will be awarding a prize for best costume, although they point out that costumes (but not clothes) are optional.
The Halloween-aware race is open to the general community. It will feature prizes for best times in all age groups, electronically tabulated by the Quantum Feet Road Runners Club, a Fresh-Meadows-based runners’ group.
Following the race, the Historical Society will hold a celebration for the participants, to be held in the ballroom of the former Fort Totten Officer’s Club, building 208 on Totten Road, which houses the Society.
Featured will be live music by a local band yet to be selected, which should prove a novel experience for racers used to enjoying the post-race glow to the beat of their own hearts.
This race is unique for several reasons,” said Carol Marian, race director and President of the Bayside Historical Society. “It is on a waterfront course, on historic grounds, and just may be the most beautiful and challenging course in Queens. I don’t know how many other races offer that, as well as live music and breakfast, plus a prize for the runner with the best costume,” she said.
The Whole Foods Market in Manhasset will be providing the breakfast fare, and the aprs-trot festivities will include raffle prizes.
The registration fee is $20 before October 25. After that, $25 will get you a place in the race; walk-ups are welcome. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m. for a 9 a.m. start.
Children under 12 can run for free at the “fun run,” which starts at 10 a.m.
The first 100 registrants will get a free “designer tee-shirt.”
For more information, call the Bayside Historical Society at 718-352-1548.