FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Hundreds of Soldiers, Family Members and Department of Army Civilians came out to participate in Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers' third annual Zombie 5K Run on Friday.
Navigating a winding course that led through the athletic fields and woods behind Magrath Gym, runners had the added challenge of having to dodge the undead that pursued them along the way.
Many of the runners dressed in costume for the event.
From superheroes to friends dressed as a hotdog and a banana, the runners were ready for a fun twist to their morning exercise routine.
More than 100 zombies lurked behind trees, fences and hay bales, waiting to try and grab the competitors' red flags as they ran by. Runners who made it through the course with at least one flag remaining were congratulated on "living" to tell their tale.
BOSS program adviser Michelle Roden said that she and the staff were excited to host the event again, as it has been very well received by past competitors.
"It was originally a Soldier's idea, and one that a lot of people seemed to enjoy," she said. "We've made some changes to the course each year, to make it more challenging."
Roden said that the Zombie 5K offers an opportunity for Soldiers to celebrate Halloween while changing up their normal physical fitness routine.
Thanks to support from Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, the Directorate of Emergency Services and Public Works utilities staff, Roden said that this year's event was another huge success.
Sgt. Ruben Fernandez, of 710th Brigade Support Battalion, ran the course with his wife, Adriana. She said that the two have completed multiple obstacle courses and fun runs offered on Fort Drum, including the Color Run, which their 6-year-old son also participated in.
"We like to run races together," she said. "It's our way of bonding as a Family and also getting some exercise."
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