How it all began...
According to the legend, as it has been passed down through generations of Texas runners, there were once centipedes and costumed runners in the Bayou City Fun Run - the name by which it was known in olden times. There are tales of packs of pigs in pink tutus, a string of runners disguised as a train, a giant armadillo, a gorilla carrying a man in a cage, and a suspension bridge made of runners.
Our team of HARRA anthropologists has researched these old stories and decided that prizes will be awarded to the following:
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What are the judges looking for?
Appearance: We believe in freedom of expression, but if the cops haul you away before you cross the finish line you will not have met rule one. Twinkie feelers (aka deele bobbers, aka antennae) are always in good taste, and judges and spectators alike find them irresistible.
Performance: Our judges are only technically not children. They will clap their hands with glee and write big numbers on their scorecards if you amuse them. Judges will be at the start, the finish and on the overpasses. Because of the vantage point we recommend that you do your best tricks at the overpasses.
Length: This is America, after all, and longer is better. Be careful though, and don't go overboard, you don't want to spoil your appearance or foul up your performance.
Rules
1. A centipede must have at least six people (seg- ments), they must be physically attached for the entire race, and they must complete the race (obviously).
2. It is permissible to have one or more icintelligent spare tiresls who run with the centipede and fill in for segments that become damaged or have to attend to personal emergencies.
Training Tips
1. Practice, practice, practice. Wear your twinkie feelers or costume while you train. You need to know what the aerodynamic affects will be at high-speeds. How does a centipede go through a water station? This would be a good thing to know before race day. And what about your acceptance speech? Should it be done in unison or will you have parts?
2. Timmer Twist. This maneuver is excellent for sudden changes of direction. Suppose you go onto the stage to accept your award and they only have steps on one side? Instead of trying to make a u-turn in a tight space, everyone just spins 180 degrees inside of the centipede body and the last shall become the first. What if you are running down a narrow trail and come upon a snake? A quick Timmer Twist and everyone is going in the opposite direction. You will find many uses for the TT.
3. Lenichi Turn. This is a 360 degree turn done as if the centipede were circling a pole. It can be spectacular when done at speed.
And last but not least
There will be a tent at the finish line full of the very finest refreshments reserved for centipedes and costumed runners only. Be there.
If you have any questions please call 713-797-8602 or send us an e-mail.