AMENIA — Preparations are in place for the 2025 RattleSnake Run, a free fun run along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail on Saturday, June 14, beginning and ending at the rail trail’s entrance in Wassaic by Maxon Mills.
The event began in 2020 among a group of friends when the pandemic introduced distanced outdoor activity. New this year is having the run begin and end in Wassaic, adding more chances to socialize with fellow runners — or walkers — who will have selected their own distance, whether half marathon, 10k or 5k, following the rail trail.
By having the finish line at the starting line, the slower participants will be able to exchange pleasantries with the faster runners who will be on their way back already. There will be no official timing. People may self-time, if they wish.
The finish line will feature celebratory music and cheering youngsters. Food and beverages will be available at The Lantern.
Participants must register in advance. The half-marathon will begin at 11:30 a.m.; the 10K Run will begin at 12:30 p.m. and the 5K Run will begin at 1:30 p.m.
To register, search online for RattleSnake Run or visit the Wassaic Project website, click on Events and scroll down to see the 2025 Run information.
Sponsoring this year’s event are Studio Bueno, Jack’s Auto Service, Silo Ridge Community Foundation, Wassaic Project, Four Brothers, Stoneleaf, and St. Thomas Church.
Event organizer is its founder, Florent Lacroix, who provided information on Tuesday, May 13, about how it began five years ago, when he was living in one of the Wassaic Project’s residency houses, vacant because all programs were on hold during the pandemic. He is the French teacher at The Millbrook School.
“Hanging out outside was our only option,” Lacroix said, explaining that he and his family had recently returned to the U.S. from living in Indonesia, where he enjoyed long-distance running. A friend in Wassaic had started a fun running program called “Couch to 5K.” The rail trail provided a course, leading a small group of friends to organize a friendly 5K run.
The event has grown from that initial group in 2020 to more than 60 last year, Lacroix said, when they opened it to more participants and gained sponsors. Last year was also the first year to encounter rain, but this year the request is for sun,” Lacroix said.
“I can guarantee this edition will be a great one,” Lacroix added with confidence.
Justine and Victor Valla in their studio with a painting of Victor’s,”Jonah and the Whale.” Robin Roraback 
