More than 160 runners compete in YMCA Camp Kern’s first winter obstacle race

OREGONIA, Ohio - Thrill-seeking runners crossed the finish line of the Arctic Dash on Saturday without a single piece of clean clothing.

More than 160 muddy and soaking wet runners high-fived and hugged after completing the inaugural 4.5K race at YMCA Camp Kern on Dec. 8. The race challenged runners to complete on a course with 20 obstacles ranging from mud pits and slip ‘n slides to lake swims and steeplechases.

The race integrated the activity areas around the 485-acre camp, located at 5291 St. Rt. 350 in Oregonia.

“We were very happy with the turnout and with this first event we didn’t know exactly what to expect,” said Arctic Dash Coordinator Chris Addison. “We were so pleased that everyone could come out — and for a good cause, too.”

An estimated $6,000 raised through the race will help send kids to Camp Kern’s summer programs. Camp Kern is part of the YMCA of Greater Dayton.

The Arctic Dash’s success has inspired Addison to work another obstacle race into the books. A new race with different challenges will likely take place at Camp Kern at some point in March 2013, Addison said. Arctic Dash’s second annual run is still planned for December 2013.

“We’re in the early planning stages of our future events, but we would love to get more people interested and help out campers who wouldn’t normally afford it,” Addison said. “If we grow this into a couple of events a year, we can help even more kids.”

For more information about the Arctic Dash and to see its results, go to http://www.arcticdash.com/ .