Growing up in Anoka, Minnesota, being part of our town's grand day parade has always been a cherished family tradition. For decades, the Gray Ghost Run has been an integral part of this tradition, igniting the streets with the hustle and spirit of runners pushing to achieve their personal bests. However, an essential element of this experience – the big finish line timer – has supposedly been relocated to the Minneapolis Halloween Run. This change not only disrupts a 40-year tradition but diminishes the motivation and excitement for hundreds of participants.

Anoka holds the proud title of the Halloween Capital of the World, and has been a beacon of Halloween festivities since 1920. Our beloved parade and its events, including the Gray Ghost Run, are distinguished by their unique history and passion that we share with participants and spectators alike. These events are woven into the fabric of our community and are vital to our cultural heritage.

The big finish line timer is more than just a clock; it symbolizes the drive and determination of every runner as they race down the hill to see their goals achieved. It serves as both a personal milestone for participants and an exhilarating moment for cheering spectators. Transferring this element to an event in Minneapolis—a run that has only been occurring for seven years—undermines Anoka’s long-standing legacy of showcasing Halloween spirit in a grand and authentic manner.

I urge the City of Anoka and the organizers of the Minnesota Running Series to reconsider this decision and restore the finish line timer to the Anoka Gray Ghost Run. Let's uphold our tradition, maintain the event's integrity, and provide runners with the motivation and recognition they deserve. Your support in signing this petition can help preserve Anoka's proud Halloween heritage for future generations. Let's bring the big finish back to where it belongs—to Anoka's own Gray Ghost Run.