Race Report: Truffle Shuffle

In this race report, I'll be reviewing the FES PTO Chocolate Truffle Shuffle 5K Trail Run, which benefits the Franklin PTO. I was sincerely hoping the race name was an indication that the race would be Goonies themed, but it was a chocolate theme.

Date: 2 May, 2026

Town: Franklin, CT, USA

Distance: 5km

Conditions: At the start of the 2026 race, it was drizzling and 49F. The rain picked up throughout the race.

Parking: There was sufficient space at the park hosting the run, and there was an overflow parking lot by the sports courts that I used. It was easy to get out with no need for marshalling.

Check In: Race registration was held in a covered pavilion. There was no line for bib pickup.

Course Description: This trail race consisted of three (!) loops of a course through the woods, with a short gravel section and a grass section. There were a number of marshals on the course warning runners about tricky spots. The roots and stone on the trail were spray-painted orange to increase their visibility and there was a handwritten sign warning of muddy conditions. I thought it was a very runnable, cute trail.

Course Map

Afterparty: In terms of refreshments, there were coolers full of chocolate milk from a local dairy as well as chocolate truffles. Bottles of water were also on hand.