FAQ
What is the point or reason of the piggyback part of the race?
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Lance Purschke Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Union R-XI Foundation. Throughout high school, Lance and friends would run almost everyday after dismissal. He routinely ran up Autumn Hill, sometimes more than once per run. Lance loved the hill and the challenge it presented. He never complained about it. Rather, his was the voice of encouragement for others to rise to the challenge. In fact, he is the first person we know of to carry someone piggyback up the hill. Hence the race name, The Piggyback Dash.
He is the inspiration behind this race and the reason we take the piggyback part so serious. While it is fun, unique, and purely optional, we do have some requirements when it comes to receiving the special piece of swag (see below).
Can I still get the swag item if I do the 1 mile?
Yes. It doesn’t matter which distance you do as long as you carry someone up Autumn Hill.
Do I have to carry someone piggyback or be carried piggyback?
No, you do not have to carry someone or be carried. This is completely optional.
Do I have to carry someone piggyback for the whole course?
No. We are only asking you to carry someone piggyback from the bottom of Autumn Hill (intersection of Autumn Hill Drive and Clark Avenue) to the finish line at the top of the hill. The distance is approximately 0.2 miles.
Does it matter who I carry piggyback?
No, it doesn’t matter who you carry. It can be someone you ran the race with, your child, friend/family member watching, race volunteer, etc. It doesn’t matter.* They don’t even have to be registered to be carried. However, they do need to sign a waiver to participate. The important part is that you used your own power to get another person up the hill.
How far do I have to carry someone piggyback?
Approximately 0.2 miles.
Can I finish the race first and then go back and do the piggyback portion?
Yes, you are more than welcome to finish the race on your own first and then go back down the hill and carry someone piggyback. We only ask that you make the volunteers and timer at the finish line know that you already finished so they don’t count your time twice. This will ensure the race results are as accurate as possible.
Does the person being carried get the special swag item?
No, they do not. Only the person doing the carrying gets it and only if they are a registered participant. However, if that person is registered, then when you finish you can go back down the hill and switch places.
Can I take a break during the piggyback portion?
You are allowed to stop and take a break while doing this. However, if you choose to do so then please do not continue to go up the hill until the person you are carrying is back on your back.
Can my partner and I switch halfway up the hill and still get the special swag item?
No, you cannot switch halfway up. In order to receive the special piece of swag you must carry someone the entire hill. However, if your partner is registered, then when you finish you can go back down the hill and switch places. This will allow both of you to receive the swag item.
What if it rains on race day?
A little bad weather never stopped Lance. The race will go on rain or shine. Race officials may cancel, delay or change the event in case of extreme weather or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of the participants. In the event of cancellation, refunds will not be issued.
Can I run/walk with my dog?
No. Unfortunately, all animals (excluding service dogs) are not allowed in the race.
