06/10/2025
Meet Dodge the Deer, the legendary mascot of the Dodge the Deer 5K! 🦌🏃♂️ Since sparking the race’s creation in 2002—when a real deer leaped out in front of Albany Running Exchange members Chris and Josh, inspiring the iconic name—Dodge has been the fleet-footed heart of this Capital Region tradition. For 23 years, this antlered trailblazer has dodged runners and led the charge on the gorgeous, 5K course through the woods of Schodack Landing State Park, weaving past trees with a mischievous smile. Lacing up nothing but his natural hooves and rocking a glossy coat that shines in beautiful, upstate New York air, Dodge thrives in the clear, dry trails—soggy, muddy paths? Not this stag’s style! 😅
With a playlist of forest-fresh jams like Grazing in the Grass, The Stags, and a sprinkle of Bambi-inspired bops blasting through his imaginary AirPods, Dodge keeps the vibe high with his favorite accessory: his majestic antlers, polished to a gleam and perfect for parting the crowd (and snagging a few low branches for flair). A proud member of the Albany Running Exchange herd, he’s all about hyping runners, from speedy sprinters to first-time 5K-ers, while dodging them with his signature agility. Dodge’s big dream? To inspire every runner at the annual Dodge the Deer 5K to chase their own PRs while keeping the fun alive for the Bully the Bear 200 Meter Sprint and Chase the Chipmunk 1 Mile kids race. Post-race, he refuels with a crunchy pile of clover and apples—because every trail dash deserves a woodland feast! 🍎
Join Dodge at The Dodge the Deer 5K every year, where he’ll be prancing through the course, cheering on runners, and leading the post-race party with music, food, and all-around fun! 🏅