Franklin Academy 5th Annual Double Helix 1.75 Mile Race

🏃‍♂️ RACE HISTORY

• Decade of Participation: Franklin Academy students have participated in local 5Ks for over a decade.
• Campus Event: During the 2020-2021 school year, when off-campus trips were paused, we brought the race to our campus!
• National DNA Day: The 1st annual race day was set on April 25, coinciding with National DNA Day.
• Creative Traditions: While most run or walk, our students and faculty have explored racing in non-traditional modes like piggybacking and biking.

🌟 EVENT DETAILS

• Date: 2025-05-24
• Location: 140 River Rd, East Haddam, CT
• Course: The 1.75 mile course has remained a constant with a history of reused trophies for winners.
• Weather: The event will occur rain or shine!

🚗 PARKING

• Entrance: Use the Pond House/Dining Hall entrance: this is 100 River Rd, East Haddam, CT.
• Guidance: Signs and parking attendants will guide you: please follow their directions.
• Main Entrance: Avoid using the main Franklin Academy entrance.
• Accessibility: Parking is designed for convenience and ease of access.

PRIZES AND RESULTS

• Course Record: $20 cash prize for setting a new course record (Current record 12:20 set in 2021 by Jake Sutterlin).
• Awards: Awards will be given three deep in various categories, including alumni and male/female divisions.
• Kids Race: Free and open to racers ages 12 and under: awards will also be given 3-deep.
• Spirit of the Race: Noteworthy costumes and dramatic finishes may receive additional awards at the judges' discretion.

💧 REFRESHMENTS

• Water Stops: There will be 2 water stops on the course, allowing for three passes by a water stop.
• Animal Friendly: Water stops will also provide bowls of water for dogs.
• Post-Race Treats: Enjoy complimentary Italian ice, watermelon, bananas, and pretzels after the race.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated while enjoying the post-race refreshments available.

🐾 DOG-FRIENDLY CAMPUS

• Leashed Dogs: Runners may race with leashed dogs.
• Vaccination Proof: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations is required by contacting the race director.
• Furry Friends: Enjoy the event with your adorable companions while adhering to guidelines.
• Involvement: Dogs can be part of the fun as long as conditions are met.

🚻 BATHROOMS

• Facilities: Two indoor single-use bathrooms will be available in our Dining Hall.
• Location: Bathrooms are conveniently located next to registration and the Start and Finish areas.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible for participants and guests.
• Convenience: Facilities ensure participants are comfortable during the event.

⛰️ COURSE

• Challenging Course: The course is a 1.75 mile route mostly on packed, rocky dirt paths.
• Terrain: Includes a mix of pavement and grass with several hills.
• Fast Finish: A notable fast downhill finish to wrap up the race.
• Course Exposure: Check out a run-through of the course.

🙌 VOLUNTEERS

• Get Involved: Extra course monitors, timers, and cheer squad members are always welcome!
• Contact: To see how you can get involved, click the "Questions" button below.
• Support: Your help can enhance the race experience for everyone.
• Participation Options: Enjoy being part of the event without racing!

🎓 FRANKLIN ACADEMY MISSION STATEMENT

• Community Focus: Franklin Academy creates a community-focused boarding and day school.
• Safety: Students belong to a safe, connected, and supported community.
• Independence: Students grow into independent, responsible young adults.
• Success: Alumni succeed in understanding their strengths and challenges.

For more information, visit the race page: Franklin Academy Double Helix Race.