For a “monstrously” good time, head to Slocum Orthopedics in Eugene for its 5th annual Monster Mash Oct. 30.  The 5K run and 5-K9 run/walk takes place on a scenic, flat course along the Willamette River through Alton Baker Park, and across the DeFazio Foot Bridge.

“The race has gone through some changes over time,” says John Bauman, administrator at Slocum Center for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, “but one component that’s always been there is the encouragement for people to bring their dogs for the 5K-9.  It’s a fun family event and we have prizes for those who bring their animals and dress up.”

The fun run is also a fundraiser for Slocum’s research foundation.  The center houses physician offices, diagnostic imaging, outpatient surgery, rehabilitation services and a therapy pool to provide care for sports-related or general orthopedic (musculoskeletal) injury.  Crystal Mills, research coordinator at Slocum Research Foundation, says the center does many studies not funded by corporate sponsors — including studies on the outcomes of their own surgical procedures and comparison studies of different surgical approaches.  “We use the funds we get to have a research assistant on staff to compile numbers and liaison with other researchers,” says Mills.  “We also do physician education, and invite allied healthcare workers to participate in physician education courses.  If we receive funds for education it goes to offset the costs for continuing education for these healthcare providers.”

Over the years, Slocum’s Monster Mash has grown from 300 attendees to more than 500 last year.  Mills says they’re expecting up to 600 this year.  That’s a lot of dogs and people!  

“We certainly have lots of happy dogs in costumes at the event,” says Mills.  “People run and walk with their dogs, and there are prizes for best pet costume and best human-pet combination, so it’s a fun people and pets event.”  Mills adds that there are always treats on hand for the pooches, and water for everyone.  Costumes are awarded at 9:30 on race day, and the race begins at 11.  For more details, visit slocumcenter.com/monstermash.