Oct. 4 is shaping up to be a busy and exciting day for Hutch Rec, with a full slate of community events ranging from races to concerts — and even a new four-legged competition.
Assistant Executive Director Amy Conklin says the Salt City 8K, 5K, and Family Fun Run will kick off Saturday, October 4, starting from the Salt City Splash parking lot. The race, which now features a unique 8K distance along the Jim Martinez Trail, is designed to offer runners a middle ground between the traditional 5K and longer 10K.
“We really weren’t seeing the interest in the 10K anymore,” Conklin said. “The 8K gives people something different — just under five miles — and you can still choose the 5K or a one-mile Family Fun Run.”
The morning races are scheduled just ahead of Hutch Brewfest, giving participants a chance to enjoy both events on the same day.
Adding to the festivities, Hutch Rec will host the community’s first-ever Dachshund Dash at 10 a.m. on October 4. Inspired by similar Oktoberfest traditions, the event will feature dachshunds racing a 100-foot dash.
“Mayor Stacey Goss actually suggested the idea, and our marketing team has had a lot of fun with it,” Conklin said. “We think it’ll be just like those baby crawl contests you see at basketball games — but with weenie dogs.”
Dog owners can register their dachshunds for the race, and Conklin said Hutch Rec is working with local partners to make the event a festive addition to the fall lineup.
Beyond Saturday, Hutch Rec’s calendar is full of fall programs, from dance and music lessons to special events like Farm to Table on October 27 and the next Third Thursday downtown.
Conklin encourages residents to check out Hutch Rec’s online activity calendar at hutchrec.com, which allows users to filter by age, location, and interest.
“There’s so much going on that no one can say there’s nothing to do in Hutchinson,” Conklin said. “Whether it’s fitness, arts, or family fun, we want people to get connected.”