SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — 2024's total solar eclipse is just around the corner and local communities in the Toledo area are finding different and unique ways to celebrate the event.
On Saturday, March 30, Springfield Township held it's first prehistoric shuffle at the Stone Oak Country Club. Community partners and local celebrities, including WTOL 11's investigative reporter, Brian Dugger, came together to raise money for charity.
In attendance was Andy Glenn, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Springfield Township. He said that while the weather may have forced them to cancel the 5k 'Eclipse and Moon-walk', he's happy that the group of dinos was still able to race.
"Unfortunately the rain prevented it from happening this morning but at least it wasn't a meteor shower and the dinosaur could still run," said Chairman Glenn. "It's going to be about a 50 yard run, and it's going to be quite amusing to watch them try and finish it."
Leading up to the race, competition was intense. All in good fun.
Reigning dinosaur shuffling champion Chandler Fitzgerald of Savage Associates says that this run is more than just entertainment.
"I think it's awesome for the community just to bring awareness to these charities and also the bonds and closeness of the local area to all run together," said Fitzgerald.
He says his chosen charity, the Springfield School Foundation, means a lot to him and that he's happy to help.
Even if it is as an inflatable dinosaur.
"My charity means a lot. Obviously schools are very important and the education system for the kids," said Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald said he hopes people will be inspired to give back... and make sure to help out the local region.
"We have a lot of good charities and foundations in the area, and just to realize what's out there and give back to the community," said Fitzgerald.
The chairman says that though the 5k was cancelled this year, they hope to make it an annual event, where the prehistoric shuffle would follow.