Fall is officially here, and Halloween events are already popping up across Central Florida.<\/p>\n
One of those events is the MADD Monster Mash & Dash, happening this Sunday at SeaWorld Orlando.<\/p>\n
The Halloween-themed race brings runners and families together for a morning of costumes, entertainment and a unique opportunity to run through SeaWorld before the park opens.<\/p>\n
The event raises money for Mothers Against Drunk Driving Central Florida and supports the organization’s work to prevent impaired driving and help victims and families impacted by impaired-driving crashes.<\/p>\n
WESH 2 Traffic Expert Meaghan Mackey will be emceeing the event for the third consecutive year.<\/p>\n
We spoke with Kristi McElroy, director of MADD Central Florida, about what participants can expect this weekend.<\/p>\n
A race through SeaWorld<\/p>\n
The Monster Mash & Dash features an exclusive, untimed course through SeaWorld Orlando.<\/p>\n
Participants will run or walk through the park before it opens to the public, passing several of SeaWorld’s attractions along the way.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are so excited,\u201d McElroy said. \u201cRunners are going to go by the manatees, by the Dolphin Cove. You can see some of the amazing Halloween decorations that they have up.\u201d<\/p>\n
The course will also feature SeaWorld’s bubble zone, characters at the finish line and a surprise animal ambassador.<\/p>\n
The event will begin with a static display featuring local law enforcement partners. McElroy said more than 20 specialty law enforcement vehicles are expected to be on display.<\/p>\n
The event is designed for more than just serious runners. Families can participate together, and there is also a Kids Dash for younger participants.<\/p>\n
Come dressed for Halloween<\/p>\n
Costumes are encouraged for the Monster Mash & Dash, with awards going to the top three Halloween costumes in the adult, group and youth categories.<\/p>\n
\u201cDress your best, be as creative as you want to be,\u201d McElroy said.<\/p>\n
The event also offers plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park.<\/p>\n
Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who registered by September 14 were guaranteed their custom event shirt and requested size.<\/p>\n
Remembering victims of impaired driving<\/p>\n
While the event has a festive Halloween theme, organizers say there is a serious purpose behind the race.<\/p>\n
A dedicated Memory Mile along the course honors people who have been injured or killed as a result of impaired-driving crashes.<\/p>\n
Local Explorers from the St. Cloud Police Department will help MADD honor victims during the event.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to make sure that we give them that space to recognize and show that local impact,\u201d McElroy said.<\/p>\n
MADD says more than 13,000 people are killed each year in DUI crashes. The organization uses events like the Monster Mash & Dash to raise awareness about impaired driving and prevention.<\/p>\n
How MADD helps victims and families<\/p>\n
MADD Central Florida’s work extends beyond events and prevention campaigns.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur primary focus is in our victim services,\u201d McElroy said. \u201cAnybody that’s been impacted by a DUI crash, please reach out to us. We’ll help with referrals, with court accompaniment.\u201d<\/p>\n
The organization also works on impaired-driving prevention in the community and provides drug and alcohol prevention education for young people.<\/p>\n
How to register<\/p>\n
It’s not too late to participate in this year’s Monster Mash & Dash.<\/p>\n
Adult registration is currently $50, plus fees, while youth registration for ages 2-12 is $30, plus fees. Spectators can attend for free. <\/p>\n