Franklin Academy 5th Annual Double Helix 1.75 Mile Race

🏃‍♂️ RACE HISTORY

• Local Participation: Franklin Academy students have participated in local 5Ks for over a decade.
• Inception: The race began during the 2020-2021 school year when off-campus trips were paused.
• Fun Concept: The first race coincided with National DNA Day.
• Course Design: The course features double helix-inspired loops with science facts along the way.

🎉 RACE TRADITIONS

• Unique Participation: Students and faculty race in unconventional modes, including piggybacking and biking.
• Trophy Tradition: Reused trophies are awarded to course winners each year.
• Community Event: Initially a private event, the race is now open to the larger community.
• Weather: The event will be held rain or shine!

🚗 PARKING

• Entrance: Use the Pond House/Dining Hall entrance: GPS address is 100 River Rd, East Haddam, CT.
• Guidance: Signs and parking attendants will assist you: please follow their directions.
• Avoid: Please avoid using the main Franklin Academy entrance.

PRIZES AND RESULTS

• Awards: Reused trophies and Franklin swag will be awarded three deep (no double-dipping).
• Course Record: $20 cash prize for setting a new course record. Current record is 12:20 by Jake Sutterlin.
• Categories: Awards for Franklin Academy alumni, students, faculty, and various age/gender categories.
• Kids Race: Free race for ages 12 and under, with awards also given 3-deep.

🥤 REFRESHMENTS

• Water Stops: Two water stops on the course, allowing three passes thanks to the looped design.
• Dog Water: Bowls of water will be available for dogs at the stops.
• Post-Race Treats: Enjoy complimentary Italian ice, watermelon, bananas, and pretzels after the race.

🐶 DOG-FRIENDLY CAMPUS

• Leashed Dogs: Runners may race with dogs on leashes.
• Vaccination Proof: Contact the race director to send proof of up-to-date vaccinations.

🚻 BATHROOMS

• Availability: Two indoor single-use bathrooms will be available in the Dining Hall, next to registration.

🏞️ COURSE

• Course Description: A challenging 1.75 mile course primarily on packed, rocky dirt paths.
• Variations: Includes short sections of pavement and grass, with notable hills and a fast finish.
• Course Preview: Check out a run-through of the course.
• Maps: Access the course map and elevation map.

🙋‍♂️ VOLUNTEERS

• Volunteer Opportunities: Join us as course monitors, timers, or cheer squad members!
• Contact Us: Reach out to the race director for more information on how to get involved.

📚 FRANKLIN ACADEMY MISSION STATEMENT

• Community: Franklin Academy fosters a supportive school environment.
• Student Growth: Students develop into responsible young adults pursuing their passions.
• Alumni Success: Graduates are equipped to self-advocate and excel as life-long learners.

📅 EVENT DETAILS

• Date: May 24, 2025
• Location: 140 River Rd, East Haddam, CT
• Race Link: Franklin Academy Double Helix Race