DERBY — One of the most scenic running races in Vermont is returning this year to Orleans County.
Kingdom Games is set to bring back the Dandelion Run with both in-person and virtual options kicking off on May 22.
In what organizers of the event call “the coming of summer’s miracle in the Northeast Kingdom,” soon the world-famous dandelion fields of Morgan, Holland, and Derby will be covered in yellow.
This traditional half-marathon makes its way through these dirt roads and fields, with live music staged along the way.
Shorter, more forgiving distances for participants include a 10K route, as well as a 4-mile, 2-mile, and 1-mile option.
This year’s run/walk will be socially distanced, with staggered starts, and limited to 100 participants.
Organizers say they encourage participants to be vaccinated, but they are not making it mandatory.
“The Dandy” as it is called is widely recognized as one of the top running races in Vermont.
It has been featured several times in Vermont Sports Magazine and was named one of the best events in Vermont by Yankee Magazine in 2011.
It is held in honor and memory of Terri Weed, a 15-year-old girl who tragically lost her life due to domestic violence on May 21, 1981.
As always, the run will raise money for Umbrella and its advocacy and support of victims of domestic violence.
