Duck Dash 5k

The Duck Dash 5k returns to Townsend, Delaware on October 6th, 2026. A local favorite, this event benefits the OHS Class of 2027 scholarship fund.
Race morning finds participants gathering at the lush Green Meadows Park, located just off Main Street in the heart of downtown Townsend. The crisp fall air is tinged with a coolness that hints at what's to come as runners lace up their shoes and prepare for the inaugural run since its inception five years ago. This year marks the sixth annual Duck Dash 5k, an event that has grown significantly over time, drawing in more than three hundred participants each October.
The course is set along the firm yet slightly soft trails of Green Meadows Park, offering a challenging but rewarding experience with slight elevation changes and several scenic turns. Runners can expect to weave through mature trees providing natural shade during parts of their journey while other sections offer wide-open views under clear skies, thanks to an average of nine hours and twenty-two minutes of sunshine expected on race day.
Race start times are at 7:00 AM sharp; participants will line up in the central section of Green Meadows Park. The route features a mix of paved paths with occasional rocky patches, ensuring variety for seasoned runners while still being accessible to beginners. As they near the finish line, runners can anticipate crossing through an area adorned by vibrant fall foliage, adding a touch of beauty and color to their final stretch.
Aid stations will be strategically placed along the course to ensure hydration and nutrition are easily accessible throughout the run. A moderate UV index suggests sunscreen may still come in handy for some participants despite overcast skies being more likely than full sun exposure.
The weather forecast predicts an average temperature around 15 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 10.1C and a maximum of 20.4C on race morning. The humidity level is expected to be quite comfortable at 67.6%, while the light rainfall (averaging just 1.3mm) poses minimal risk for wet conditions.
The Duck Dash 5k offers both a 5K distance, benefiting OHS Class of 2027 scholarship fund.