Dashing through the dirt
Dirt Dash
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Saturday, Nov. 15, 8 a.m.
$25 before Nov. 14
$35 after Nov. 14
When runners take to the trail at this year’s Dirt Dash, they will be helping to provide local schools with a curriculum-based science education.
Now entering its third year, the dash began after the Junior Board of Birmingham Botanical Gardens saw growing popularity in 5Ks around the Birmingham area and realized they had an opportunity.
“[The board] felt like it had something to offer that audience,” Public Relations Coordinator Blake Ells said. “[The gardens have] one of Birmingham’s most scenic locations and Alabama’s largest living museum.”
The Gardens began the race in order to raise money for its educational mission. Discovery Field Trips, the Gardens’ flagship program, has provided a free science-based education to more than 100,000 Birmingham students. The dash assists by raising a few thousand dollars, which helps the Gardens host educational field trips for local schools.
“Beyond that, we’re proud to get several hundred people to come to the Gardens who might not otherwise visit,” Junior Board President Robert MacArthur said.
Approximately 250 runners and their families attended last year’s dash, which features a hilly course that is shaded by the Gardens’ local and exotic trees. Although it has the feel of a trail run, most of the course is paved.
All runners will receive a dry-blend T-shirt and a swag bag filled items from local businesses at the Nov. 15 race. Along with a 5K and fun run, the Gardens will have free snacks and other family-friendly activities. As a new addition to this year’s events, a local rock band will perform in the family fun area.
Medals will be awarded to the top three finishers from each 10-year age bracket.
“The most rewarding part of the Dirt Dash for me is watching runners from older ages groups get medals despite finishing in the middle of the pack overall,” MacArthur said.
Fall and winter activities in the Gardens
Take a class: Learn photography, yoga or build artistic skills with the Gardens’ variety of classes.
Visit the art gallery: Artist Charlotte Holder will be featured through November and December.
Shop for winter plants: The Red Mountain Garden Club Greenery Sale will be held on Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.