2013 Fairgrounds 5K Wrap Up

November 7, 2013
drewnorton's picture
By Drew Sniezek

Last week was a whirlwind but I am excited that I have completed my first Blue Ribbon Foundation event. On Sunday, there were over 400 people on the Fairgrounds for the 5K. The sun was shining and it was breezy.  In my book, it was a beautiful day.

I would like to thank all of the Fair-goers that participated in the 5K Run and Walk. I saw several families running, walking, or chasing the cow together. It was a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon. It still feels strange to have an event at the Fairgrounds and walk along Grand Avenue without weaving your way through people.  It was a nice change of pace from August.

One thing that I have learned very quickly while working at the Foundation is that volunteers are key to success. I truly appreciated their help. It made my job so much easier having such great volunteers. I wanted to specifically thank Robin and Jenna. I have one of the best “teams” to work with. Last week had some stressful moments, but both of them stayed positive and encouraged my every move.

The corndogs, Fair Squares and beer were a big hit with the crowd. I will continue to add new things and maybe even more food to the event next year. In all honesty, food is one of my favorite parts of the Iowa State Fair.

This week I have received feedback/ suggestions to help improve the event. Here are a few comments from the race:

  • I really enjoyed this race. The course was great, a little challenging (in a good way) and the course support and spectators were awesome.
  • We had a great time at the Fairgrounds 5K and hope to return next year. We traveled 70 miles to participate.
  • Overall keep up the good work! I will keep coming back every year. I like to be the person that has done the race each year.

Although the 5K is finished, my job doesn’t slow down. It’s time for membership program renewals, giving program promotion and to start planning the Corndog Kickoff! (I am already getting nervous for that event.) Thanks again to those that helped make the Fairgrounds 5K a success. My goal is to make the 8th annual event even better.