CARTHAGE, Mo. — In the spirit of Mardi Gras – known for flamboyant costumes in the wild streets of New Orleans – Carthage will have its own kind of celebration on Feb. 26 … but the beverage of choice will probably be water.
The Fair Acres Family YMCA will host its Fifth Annual Masquerade 5K Race; which starts on the Square, winds through the streets of Carthage and returns to the Square. Locals can expect to see brightly colored runners for this fun event that’s slated for 2 p.m., rain or shine.
“This is an amazing opportunity to challenge hardcore runners, but also to see what we are made of,” said Tericia Mixon, Y assistant executive director and event organizer. “It’s not that the course is particularly challenging, but the elements are uncertain. I admire the runners who say ‘Come what may, I’m going to put myself out there and see what I can do.’ I enjoy the runners who show up decked out in masks and costumes. It just makes the event so much more fun.”
Participants who love this event will want to take advantage of the chance to bundle this registration with the Maple Leaf 5K for a discounted price. Another benefit to laissez les bon temp rouler – or, let the good times roll – is every runner will receive a medal and goodie bag.
“It’s a season of new beginnings. It’s a chance to say we’re ready for the good times. And what better way to embrace that sentiment than to challenge our bodies in a healthy way,” Mixon said. “I love this quote from John Bingham: ‘What distinguishes those of us at the starting line from those of us on the couch is that we learn through running to take what the days gives us, what our body will allow us, and what our will can tolerate.’”
Y Locations
The Y operates four locations in Carthage. On top of the facility at 2600 Grand, the Y opened another location on the north side of the Square in July 2019. The organization took over the former Game On sports complex at 400 S. Maple and officially opened to the public in August 2020 and is now called the Youth Activity Center. A local membership includes any use of these facilities as well as the Carthage Municipal Pool, located in Municipal Park on Robert Ellis Drive.
For more information or to register for events, please visit fairacresymca.com.
