WEST PARIS — The first Pumpkin Run held Oct. 20. More than 200 entrants participated in the 5K run, mile-walk and kids fun run.

For completing the run, each child was able to take home a pumpkin donated from the Swain Family Farm in Bethel. For the adults, Wendy Newmeyer from Maine Balsam Fir Products created a handmade balsam pillow as an award for completing the run.

It was truly a community event with whole families signing up to compete together.

The top three male finishers were Ben Taska from Portland (time 17:12), Nate McNutt (19:28) from West Paris and Alex Johnson (19:30) from Bryant Pond. The top three female finishers were Madison Letourneau (23:50) from Norway, Morgan Letourneau (23:57) from West Paris and Amy Wheeler (24:25) from Bethel. All top finishers received a “West Paris Pumpkin Run” balsam pillow from Maine Balsam Fir.

After the race, there was a contest for the best chili and pumpkin pie. Out of a large field, Lolliepapa Farm’s chili was voted into first place and the West Paris Explorers won the vote for the best pumpkin pie. Lolliepapa Farm is a local farm from West Paris which specializes in organic produce, soups and baked goods. The West Paris Explorers is the after-school program at Agnes Gray School. It is lead by Eileen Stork.

More than 65 children participated in the mile-long fun run. The kids ran their hearts out and came across the finish line with pink cheeks and big smiles. They were welcomed by a cheering crowd of proud parents, grandparents, teachers and neighbors.

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