ALBUQUERQUE, NM— Ghoulish good times await participants at Albuquerque’s 3rd annual Day of the Tread event as they bike, walk and run to benefit local charities – Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation, Casa Esperanza and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 

The event, presented by Lovelace Medical Center and the Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa, is a family-oriented, Halloween themed celebration featuring costumed participants, pumpkin-lined paths and over 20 entertainment acts by New Mexico’s finest musicians.

In just three short years, the event has grown from 280 the first year to an expected 1200 this year.  Organizers from the Embassy Suites are planning to work with the Visit Albuquerque to encourage more out-of-town participation in future years, as this event was developed out of efforts to promote the city’s tremendous outdoor recreation offerings, our desirable climate and beautiful landscape.

Runners will go batty for the USA Track & Field certified 5K & 10K runs, while walkers and kids can enjoy a pumpkin-lined stroll through several of Albuquerque’s culturally diverse neighborhoods. New this year for bikers is the monstrous 100-mile route – the longest of the five – that will take place in addition to the 12, 26, 54 and 80-mile distances.    

Bike races will start at 8:45 a.m. at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa followed by runs and walks at 9:15 a.m. Themed food stations and festive contests will run throughout the day. A post-event celebration will begin at 9:30 a.m. including lunch, costume contests, music and entertainment featuring a performance by the Pink Flamingos.

Participating sponsors for the event include Sandia Science & Technology Park, Sysco, Tri Core Reference Labs, Sports Systems, 103.3 eD FM, Aiken Printing, and Sandia Resort & Casino. For entry information and to register, visit www.dayofthetread.com

* This will be a great visual event with costumes so please send photographers.