Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K Brings Halloween Spirit to Sussex County

The fall foliage provided a stunning backdrop as 115 runners gathered in Newton, NJ, on October 25th, 2025, for the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K. This spirited community event combined the thrill of competitive racing with Halloween festivities, creating an unforgettable morning for participants of all ages and abilities.

A Perfect Fall Morning for Racing

Race day greeted participants with quintessential autumn conditions that runners dream about. The crisp October air energized the field as athletes lined up at the starting line, many sporting creative Halloween costumes that added a festive atmosphere to the competitive event. The course wound through the scenic streets of Newton, showcasing why Sussex County remains one of New Jersey's hidden gems for road racing.

The Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K demonstrated once again why small-town races hold such a special place in the running community. The intimate field of 115 finishers created a supportive environment where elite runners pushed for podium positions while recreational athletes pursued personal goals, all united by their love of the sport.

Elite Performances Lead the Pack

The men's race saw an exceptional battle at the front, with Carmine Battaglia emerging victorious in a time of 21:04.53. Battaglia's sub-21:30 performance set the tone for a competitive day of racing, demonstrating the caliber of talent the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K attracts. His winning pace of approximately 6:47 per mile showcased the fitness and determination required to claim top honors.

Hot on Battaglia's heels was O. Herzenberg, who crossed the finish line in 21:23.09, just 18 seconds behind the winner. This close finish kept spectators on their toes and exemplified the competitive spirit that makes road racing so compelling. Rounding out the podium was Ethan Rodriguez with a time of 21:41.26, completing a strong top three that all finished under the 22-minute mark.

The tight margins between the podium finishers—less than 40 seconds separating first from third—speak to the depth of talent in the field and the motivation that comes from racing against worthy competitors. These performances set a high bar for future editions of the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K.

Community Participation Shines

One of the most encouraging aspects of the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K was the strong female participation, with 61 women crossing the finish line compared to 54 men. This slight majority of female finishers reflects a growing trend in running communities nationwide and demonstrates the event's appeal across demographics.

The gender breakdown of 53% female to 47% male participants showcases the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K's success in creating an inclusive environment that welcomes all runners. From first-time 5K participants to seasoned competitors chasing personal records, the event catered to the entire spectrum of the running community.

The Importance of Professional Race Timing

Behind every successful race stands a crucial but often overlooked component: professional race timing services. Tristate Timing provided comprehensive timing solutions for the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K, ensuring every participant received accurate, reliable results they could trust.

Professional race timing serves multiple critical functions that enhance the participant experience. Accurate chip timing technology captures precise finish times for every runner, eliminating the congestion and delays associated with manual timing methods. This precision matters whether you're competing for an overall victory or simply trying to beat your personal best.

Beyond individual results, professional race timing enables race directors to efficiently manage their events, from start line organization to awards ceremonies. Real-time result processing means participants can access their official times within minutes of finishing, adding to the excitement and allowing for prompt awards presentations.

RunSignup Results and Digital Integration

In today's digital age, runners expect immediate access to their results, and the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K delivered. Through Tristate Timing's integration with RunSignup results platforms, participants could quickly view their official times, compare performances, and share achievements with friends and family on social media.

The convenience of online results has transformed the post-race experience. Instead of waiting at crowded results boards, runners can catch their breath, enjoy post-race refreshments, and check their performance on their smartphones. This seamless digital experience has become an expectation for modern road races, and professional timing companies like Tristate Timing make it possible.

Newton's Growing Race Scene

The success of the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K adds to Newton, NJ's, reputation as a welcoming destination for road races. The town's combination of scenic routes, supportive community, and accessible location makes it an ideal venue for events of all sizes. Sussex County's rolling terrain provides challenging yet achievable courses that appeal to runners seeking variety in their race calendar.

Local races like the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K play a vital role in strengthening community bonds while promoting health and wellness. The event brings together neighbors, families, and visitors, creating economic activity for local businesses while fostering civic pride. These community-oriented races form the backbone of American road racing, complementing larger metropolitan events with their personal touch and intimate atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

The Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K has established itself as a must-run event on the fall racing calendar. The combination of quality organization, professional race timing services, and strong community support creates an experience that keeps participants returning year after year.

For race directors planning their own events in Newton, NJ, or throughout the tri-state area, partnering with experienced timing professionals ensures your race runs smoothly from registration through results publication. Tristate Timing's expertise in managing races of all sizes means you can focus on creating a memorable experience while we handle the technical details.

Join Us at Future Events

Whether you're a competitive athlete chasing podium finishes or a recreational runner embracing the joy of crossing finish lines, professional timing services enhance your race experience. The accuracy, reliability, and convenience provided by companies like Tristate Timing have become essential elements of modern road racing.

Are you planning a race in the tri-state area? Contact Tristate Timing to learn how our professional race timing services can elevate your event and provide participants with the seamless, accurate experience they deserve.

Congratulations to all 115 finishers of the 2025 Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K! Your dedication to health, fitness, and community makes events like this possible. We look forward to timing many more races in Newton and throughout New Jersey.

For complete results from the Newton Pride Monster Dash 5K, visit the official RunSignup results page and see where you placed in this exciting community event!