Hartford Community Gathers to Announce 2025 “Donny’s Dash: Scary Good Fall Run”

October 15, 2025

Miles of Smiles: Where Fitness Meets Fun and Community

On Wednesday, October 15, at noon, the Hartford community came together at Hartford City Hall to officially announce the 2025 “Donny’s Dash” 5K, set to take place on Saturday, October 25 at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center.

The announcement featured a dynamic lineup of local leaders and sports legends, including Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, UConn basketball legend and BGCH Board Member Donny Marshall, Morgan Tuck, General Manager of the CT Sun, Tim Restall, President of the Hartford Yard Goats, Bruce Jeffery, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, Josh Miller, President of the Hartford Marathon Foundation, and of course, the beloved mascots Blaze, Chompers & Chew Chew, Louis the Alligator, and Miles.

Adding a playful twist to the announcement, the mascots challenged Mayor Arulampalam to a special 10-yard “Mascot Marathon”, setting the tone for this year’s Halloween-themed “Scary Good Fall Run”. The mascots brought energy, laughter, and excitement, perfectly embodying the fun and community spirit of the event.

All proceeds from Donny’s Dash will directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, helping local youth access safe spaces, mentorship, and programs that encourage learning, leadership, and growth. This event exemplifies how sports, community, and local organizations can come together to create meaningful impact for Hartford kids.

The 2025 Donny’s Dash promises not only a fun and festive run but also an opportunity to support the future of Hartford youth. Registration is open now, and participants are encouraged to join the community for a day of fitness, fun, and giving back.

For more information or to register, visit: Donny’s Dash Registration

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Scary Good Fun for a Great Cause: 2025 Donny’s Dash Brings Greater Hartford Together

October 28, 2025

Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford President & CEO Bruce Jeffery joins UConn legend Donny Marshall, BGCH staff, and Club Kids at the start of the 2025 Donny’s Dash: Scary Good Fall Run at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center. Over 400 runners, including 80 Club Kids, participated in this community event in support of Great Futures. Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. Over 400 runners and 80 youth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford laced up their sneakers today for the 2025 Donny’s Dash: Scary Good Fall Run, held at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center. The event brought together families, community partners, and corporate supporters for a day filled with fitness, fun, and philanthropy—all in support of opening doors to Great Futures for Hartford youth. Among the runners were more than 80 Club Kids r epresenting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, who ran with pride, excitement, and that signature Club energy. Their enthusiasm captured the true spirit of the event—creating opportunities where young people can grow, thrive, and dream big. The celebration featured appearances by Donny Marshall, UConn basketball legend and BGCH Board Member, Morgan Tuck, General Manager of the CT Sun, and Bruce Jeffery, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. "We are incredibly proud to see our community come together to support our Club kids," said Jeffery. "Every mile run today represents a step toward brighter futures for the kids we serve every day." All proceeds from Donny's Dash directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, providing local youth with access to safe spaces, positive mentorship, and programs focused on academic success, character & leadership, wellness and life & workforce readiness.