The Spooktacular Chase is well known among area runners as Cobb County’s premier Halloween-themed 10K/5K/1K races. But for East Cobb resident Nancy Parkin-Bashizi, the October 15 event is even more than that.
“The Spooktacular Chase is a family tradition in our home,” said Nancy. “My husband, children and I have participated as runners and volunteers since the event began in 2009. Each year we bring in more neighbors, work associates and buddies, so I guess now we need to call it a ‘friends and family’ tradition.”
All proceeds from the event go to support the life-changing services provided by Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia, for whom Nancy is a program director. Founded in 1983, Vision Rehabilitation Services is a 501(c) (3) non profit that serves blind and low-vision residents of all ages in Cobb County and 30 other counties in North Georgia.
This year, Nancy and her husband Dominique are exploring ways to participate with a young friend who is visually impaired. “The Chase is a special event, and people of all abilities and ages are welcome,” added Nancy. “The focus is on what we can do — not our limitations – and to celebrate the successes in our lives.”
“The Spooktacular Chase plays a key role in our work to help people who are challenged by vision loss or impairment,” said Sharon Croyle, executive director and CEO of the Vision Rehabilitation Services. “The race has raised more than $242,000 over the years, and the 2016 edition promises to be our biggest and most successful yet. We hope to attract over 1,000 participants — up from 150 in the inaugural event.”
The 8th Annual Spooktacular Chase is on Saturday, October 15, with the races beginning and ending in front of Cobb Park in Smyrna at the intersection of Powder Springs Street SE and Sanford Place. The 10K starts at 8 am, followed by the 5K at 8:15 am and the 1K Creepy Kilo at 9 am. Participants may sign up as individuals or compete in teams, and all are encouraged to come dressed in Halloween costumes. Since the 10K and 5K races are certified courses, participants can use their times when registering for placement in the Peachtree Road Race corrals.
Included with each 5K and 10K participant’s registration is a colorful t-shirt and a free brunch prepared by Chef David and co-sponsored by Zaxby’s on Spring Road and served at The American Legion Post 160 in Smyrna. As of August 17, sponsors at the Dracula level ($2,500) include Cobb EMC Community Foundation, Marietta Eye Clinic, National Vision Inc. and Your Design Online.
For more information, visit www.spooktacularchase.com or call 770-432-7280.
Headquartered in Smyrna, Vision Rehabilitation Service of Georgia (VRS) is dedicated to assisting individuals who are blind or visually impaired so they may function independently in all their environments. Terry Taylor lives in Smyrna and volunteers at VRS.
