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Community Corner

The Tomato Run!

There’s a new family 5k in town, and according to its creators, the event is sure to be “SAUCESOME!” Inspired by the Spanish food fight sensation, La Tomatina, The Tomato Run will combine a 3.1 mile run with a tomato battle using local, inedible tomatoes to create what’s been called the “messiest 5k on earth.” Registration will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, Maryland; the race will begin at 10:30 a.m.
 
“Almost everyone dreams of participating in an all-out, rip-roaring food fight…and we’re fortunate enough to bring that dream to life,” said Ryan Hogan, CEO of RSP Live. “And knowing this event is supporting local farmers, and benefiting veterans in Maryland and across the country? That’s simply the sauce on top!”
 
The tomatoes used in The Tomato Run are inedible, surplus tomatoes that are sourced by local farmers. Once the run is over, tomatoes remnants will be donated to Veteran Compost, a veteran owned and operated compost facility and member of the U.S. Composting Council, which promotes the recycling of organic materials through turning food scraps into high-quality compost. Extending support to veterans, and military members around the globe, participants will be able to make an additional donation to American Red Cross when they register.
 
The race will include three “Tomato Zones,” where the “Tomato Army” will launch squashed tomato remnants at participants, along with a post-race “Tomato Arena” where runners are armed with tomato ammo will battle each other (safety eyewear is required!).  Family and friends can watch the race from the start line and the arena, and with a ticket, can participate in the “Kids Zone,” which will be equipped with tomato-based family-friendly activities. Ripken Stadium will be opening and serving tomato-inspired food items. Participants can enjoy music, Tomato Run merchandise, and beer from Peabody Heights Brewery – the official beer sponsor of this year's event! No ticket is required to enter Ripken Stadium. 

The cost of entry into the tomato run is $40 for a single entry, or $35 per person for a group of four. Registration includes a Tomato Run T-shirt, and free entry into the tomato battle and festival area with food, drinks, music and more. Kids Zone entry is $10 per family.

For rules, registration and more information, visit www.thetomatorun.com.

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