site event 🍃The Running of the Leaves (2025) Race Event!

[liujiadong 544]

"That's gonna be fun! I'm giving it my all," Sunshine said as she started warming up and called her friends over to join the competition.

@ExplosionMare@Clawdeen@Samurai Equine@Sparklefan1234@PrincessPriscillaPT@Astralshy@Night Sky@TheRockARooster@MLP Golden Breezie

[Iridescent Edge 725]

On 2025-09-03 at 5:33 PM, Dynamo Pad said:

Returning to his table, Dynamo kept his eyes peeled for anyone that wished to sign up. Off to the side, the gaming unicorn noticed an ebony unicorn with a mane and tail that looked like the colors of a rainbow. Taking notice of the now known Iridescent Edge's hoof resting on the table, Dynamo looked up and gave the unicorn a smile with a nod. "Hey Iridescent and it's great to meet you. My name is Dynamo Pad, but my friends call me Dynamo. I'm glad that you were able to make it and that you were interested in the event. Let's see..." Dynamo says, flipping through the numbers to verify Iridescent's name being on the sign up list. After a moment of searching, the gaming unicorn pulled out a sheet, before presenting it to Iridescent. "Aha! Here we are! Your number for the event is 93! That will be one free hug, please! If that's okay, of course as hugs are optional. Good luck in today's race!"

"Uh, I think I'll pass on the hugs, thanks." *Iridescent Edge says, still wearing a smile, but his eyebrows have lowered slightly. He takes his number and goes to wait by the starting line. He takes another moment to look over at the competition. He still doesn't have the guts to initiate conversation right now, so he just sits there twiddling with his hooves.*

[Roswell]

*flies in to land*

I hope I'm not too late for the Running Of The Leaves.

[Samurai Equine 56,069]

On 2025-09-06 at 1:32 PM, Moonlight Wane said:

Moonlight waves at his friend. "Hi Samurai! Good to see you too! You got a new mouse companion? Is she also racing?" He laughed. "Hi little one. I would give you some cheese, but I don't have any."

Samurai laughs. "This little cutie? No. She's much too small. But who knows, she may support the racers in other ways. She all ready tried to give one a snack." Moushley crawls up on top of Samurai's head and waves at Moonlight.

On 2025-09-06 at 8:19 PM, liujiadong said:

"That's gonna be fun! I'm giving it my all," Sunshine said as she started warming up and called her friends over to join the competition.

@ExplosionMare@Clawdeen@Samurai Equine@Sparklefan1234@PrincessPriscillaPT@Astralshy@Night Sky@TheRockARooster@MLP Golden Breezie

Samurai waves at Sunshine. "Well aren't you a bright one. Good to see the positivity. I look forward to this race!"

16 hours ago, Roswell said:

*flies in to land*

I hope I'm not too late for the Running Of The Leaves.

Samurai notices and waves. "Good to see again, Roswell. I remember you from the last race. But unlike last time, I won't be taking this race lightly." Samurai gives a competitive smirk.

[Roswell]

2 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

Samurai laughs. "This little cutie? No. She's much too small. But who knows, she may support the racers in other ways. She all ready tried to give one a snack." Moushley crawls up on top of Samurai's head and waves at Moonlight.

Samurai waves at Sunshine. "Well aren't you a bright one. Good to see the positivity. I look forward to this race!"

Samurai notices and waves. "Good to see again, Roswell. I remember you from the last race. But unlike last time, I won't be taking this race lightly." Samurai gives a competitive smirk.

Samurai, well well.

You've come back for the race too?

It's good to see you as well but I'm in this one and I'm not taking it lightly either.

[Dynamo Pad 11,817]

On 2025-09-06 at 9:19 PM, liujiadong said:

"That's gonna be fun! I'm giving it my all," Sunshine said as she started warming up and called her friends over to join the competition.

“Awesome! I look forward to seeing you and everyone giving it your all!” Dynamo smiled as he admired the enthusiasm. When he moved Ponyville, he always enjoyed watching the Running of the Leaves. Compared to last year’s competition, he knew this year would be just as fun.

On 2025-09-06 at 10:31 PM, Iridescent Edge said:

"Uh, I think I'll pass on the hugs, thanks." *Iridescent Edge says, still wearing a smile, but his eyebrows have lowered slightly. He takes his number and goes to wait by the starting line. He takes another moment to look over at the competition. He still doesn't have the guts to initiate conversation right now, so he just sits there twiddling with his hooves.*

“That’s okay and I completely understand. Hugs are always optional and I hope that you have fun in the race today!” Dynamo smiles kindly as Iridescent took his number. 

20 hours ago, Roswell said:

*flies in to land*

I hope I'm not too late for the Running Of The Leaves.

As an ebony pegasus with a blue and yellow mane and tail flew in, Dynamo gasped with a grin as he recognized the Pegasus instantly. “Roswell! It’s really good to see you again, bro! How are you doing? Also, you’re just in time! One is never too late to take part in the race.” Dynamo says, looking through his clipboard as he looked for Roswell’s name. Upon finding said name and flipping through the numbered papers, the gaming unicorn smiled as he handed the paper to Roswell. “There you go, bro! Your number for the competition is number 95! That will be one free hug, please! If that’s okay, of course.”

[Dusk Haven 87]

Dusk walks calmly upon the staging grounds for the event; her cloak fastened around her neck, draping over her flank and sides. She inhales the scent and notes the delicious motes of fresh cider, caramel, and freshly cut apples. Her horn flickers as she double-checks her glamour. All is good. She wanders the different vendor stalls, and her stomach rumbles with all the fantastic options. She opts for water right now until she can secure her place in the race. No time to spare, according to the signage. She moves about from pony to pony until she finds the one she thinks is @Dynamo Pad.

"Excuse me. I was hoping you still have some slots left for the "Running of the Leaves event. I've heard it's fun, but I have only watched at a distance before. I have bits if needed."

[Roswell]

6 hours ago, Dynamo Pad said:

“Awesome! I look forward to seeing you and everyone giving it your all!” Dynamo smiled as he admired the enthusiasm. When he moved Ponyville, he always enjoyed watching the Running of the Leaves. Compared to last year’s competition, he knew this year would be just as fun.

“That’s okay and I completely understand. Hugs are always optional and I hope that you have fun in the race today!” Dynamo smiles kindly as Iridescent took his number. 

As an ebony pegasus with a blue and yellow mane and tail flew in, Dynamo gasped with a grin as he recognized the Pegasus instantly. “Roswell! It’s really good to see you again, bro! How are you doing? Also, you’re just in time! One is never too late to take part in the race.” Dynamo says, looking through his clipboard as he looked for Roswell’s name. Upon finding said name and flipping through the numbered papers, the gaming unicorn smiled as he handed the paper to Roswell. “There you go, bro! Your number for the competition is number 95! That will be one free hug, please! If that’s okay, of course.”

Well, if it isn't Dynamo Pad, long time no see.

It's nice to see you too and I'm well.

*takes the number*

95? Hope this number will give me some luck.

*reluctantly gives a small hug*

Take care.

[Dynamo Pad 11,817]

6 hours ago, Roswell said:

Well, if it isn't Dynamo Pad, long time no see.

It's nice to see you too and I'm well.

*takes the number*

95? Hope this number will give me some luck.

*reluctantly gives a small hug*

Take care.

"You can say that again. It's been far too long. I'm glad to hear that you're doing well and we really need to catch up after the race." Dynamo says, smiling happily as he returned the hug. "I can imagine the number 95 could be a time we were given a Godzilla movie. Channel the power of Godzilla as you run! I know that you and everypony participating got this. Take care and talk to you soon, bro!" He exclaimed, waving at Roswell's retreating form as he went back to his work.

12 hours ago, Dusk Haven said:

Dusk walks calmly upon the staging grounds for the event; her cloak fastened around her neck, draping over her flank and sides. She inhales the scent and notes the delicious motes of fresh cider, caramel, and freshly cut apples. Her horn flickers as she double-checks her glamour. All is good. She wanders the different vendor stalls, and her stomach rumbles with all the fantastic options. She opts for water right now until she can secure her place in the race. No time to spare, according to the signage. She moves about from pony to pony until she finds the one she thinks is @Dynamo Pad.

"Excuse me. I was hoping you still have some slots left for the "Running of the Leaves event. I've heard it's fun, but I have only watched at a distance before. I have bits if needed."

As he kept his eyes peeled to see if anyone passing by to sign up, the gaming unicorn had taken notice of a unicorn mare. She had a cloak fastened around her neck, while it draped over the rest of her body. "Hello and there's still plenty of time for sign ups! In fact, we're just about to start soon, so we're taking a few more submissions in case they were interested in the race. You heard right! The Running of the Leaves is always a lot of fun to both watch and take part in!" Dynamo smiled, shaking his head at the mention of bits. "Oh, no. Bits are not needed to sign up. Fliers and invitations had been sent out to anypony that wished to sign up. If you are on the clipboard, then you are given a number and are set to compete. What's you name? Let me see if I can give you a number, as well." He looked through the pile of papers for available numbers as he smiled, before giving the paper to the cloaked mare. "Here you go! You can have number 20! That will be one free hug, please! If that's okay, of course as hugs are optional."

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@Silverspark184 @PrincessPriscillaPT @Samurai Equine @Nitobit @Livealarm @ComanderZhabikKlavik @Wizard @Iridescent Edge @SidewinderX @liujiadong @Nook Cranny @Dusk Haven

As he began to make his way towards the main stage, Dynamo remembered how he had felt in last year's event. He remembered being nervous, both for public speaking and worrying that the race would go well. Given the fact that he also wanted everyone in the race to have fun. This year, he was still nervous, but he felt more confident than he had been before. With each step he took, he felt braver and more self assured that everything would go well. While he didn't prepare flash cards, he knew it would be better to wing it. As he looked towards the sky, he noticed it had gotten a bit darker and very gray. Clouds were seen for miles that not a color of blue could be seen in the sky. 'I sure hope it doesn't rain. Got to stay optimistic, but I have this bad feeling for some reason.' Shaking his head to erase any doubts, he took a deep breath as he turned his attention towards the audience. "Hello, everypony! Thank you all so much for coming and I'd like to welcome you all to this year's The Running of the Leaves!" Dynamo says, hearing the round of applause from the audience, before everything became quiet once more. "I'm your host Dynamo Pad and I'll be hosting this race once more like last year. It looks like we've got ourselves some returning racers, as well as some new participants! Each of you has been given a number and is all set to begin!" He begins, using his magic to activate a projector on stage which showed a giant map. For both the racers and audience members to view.

Once you make your way past the starting line, you will be running through the White Tail Woods. As you make your way along the path, you might need to take a turn or two here and there. It's why this will be a bit different this year in comparison to last year's race! Always a good way to spice thing up and have some different obstacles. That's right! There will be a few obstacles for you to overcome as you head down the path and knocking down leaves along the way. There will be some arrows to mark the path so that you don't get lost along the way. Each obstacle that you come across will bring you one step closer to crossing the finish line! While flying is prohibited, using your wings to glide from time to time is still allowed. The same goes for those that are able to use magic as while spells aren't allowed to be used on the race to make things easier. They are still used in the off chance that you need a light spell or if you're stuck and need to use a spell to give you a boost. Even if gliding and some spells are allowed, the point is still run and knocking down leaves." He explained, pointing a hoof over towards Starlight and Pinkie Pie. "As for our vocal casters, Starlight Glimmer and Pinkie Pie will be your two two commentators throughout the race. They'll be taking a hot air balloon and get a good bird's eye view of the racer's competing. They have the numbers of our contestants, as well! Meaning they'll be able to give the play by play on which racer is out in front, or is able to knock down some leaves as they run." He says, while Starlight and Pinkie were making their way into the balloon.

"Do any of you have any questions, before we begin?" Dynamo turns to asks the racers, but was momentarily interrupted as he felt a raindrop drip upon his nose. Blinking in surprise, he looked up to see that more and more raindrops were starting to form and fall. Effectively turning into a drizzle before the race could begin. "I knew I shouldn't have thought about that bad feeling, but I guess that feeling wanted to prove a point." He sighed, worried and wondered what was going to happen now.

 

[Rainbow Dash 332]

As the rain began to fall into a light drizzle, Rainbow Dash was flying as fast as she could towards the main stage. Despite the slight wind here and there, she knew that a little breeze wouldn't stop her from making her way to give her weather report. She had recalled that things weren't going to be bad in terms of the weather and she even guaranteed that things would be clear blue skies. However, it looked like things had been changed last second, or there was a change in plans that she wasn't aware of. She had double checked with the weather team if someone put in a different report, but she was met with the same response from each member on the team. 'I just don't understand why this had even occurred. I remember Dynamo, the weather team, everyone involved and I had made sure of what the race would look like beforehoof. There was no forecast for rain today.' She wondered as she saw the stage in her field of vision. As she glided her way towards the stage, she landed with a slide as the stage was a little wet and slippery from the rain. "Dynamo! I got an update for you!" She called out to the gaming unicorn, while walking briskly up towards him.

"It just rained out of nowhere last minute, but that's what it said in the weather report. It was going to rain, no matter what. At least, that's what the report that was given to myself and the team. We thought there was something wrong, but we found the report was legit. While it will be raining, the rain will eventually stop. When that will be, I don't exactly know. However, I think the race will still be good to go." Rainbow says, hoping that would be enough of a guarantee for the race to not be cancelled.

[Silverspark]

Silverspark looked around and spotted her sister getting a drink at the water stand. "Hey, sis, could you pass me some, too? We need to develop a strategy for this race. I doubt flying is allowed, and magic is off the table, so we need to work together to reach the finish line."

Brightspark turned to look at her. "Hmm..." before  answering "Well, we're here to have fun and show a good sport Poniship 

[Dynamo Pad 11,817]

6 hours ago, Rainbow Dash said:

As the rain began to fall into a light drizzle, Rainbow Dash was flying as fast as she could towards the main stage. Despite the slight wind here and there, she knew that a little breeze wouldn't stop her from making her way to give her weather report. She had recalled that things weren't going to be bad in terms of the weather and she even guaranteed that things would be clear blue skies. However, it looked like things had been changed last second, or there was a change in plans that she wasn't aware of. She had double checked with the weather team if someone put in a different report, but she was met with the same response from each member on the team. 'I just don't understand why this had even occurred. I remember Dynamo, the weather team, everyone involved and I had made sure of what the race would look like beforehoof. There was no forecast for rain today.' She wondered as she saw the stage in her field of vision. As she glided her way towards the stage, she landed with a slide as the stage was a little wet and slippery from the rain. "Dynamo! I got an update for you!" She called out to the gaming unicorn, while walking briskly up towards him.

"It just rained out of nowhere last minute, but that's what it said in the weather report. It was going to rain, no matter what. At least, that's what the report that was given to myself and the team. We thought there was something wrong, but we found the report was legit. While it will be raining, the rain will eventually stop. When that will be, I don't exactly know. However, I think the race will still be good to go." Rainbow says, hoping that would be enough of a guarantee for the race to not be cancelled.

As his attention was divided from the sky, the racers, the audience, as well as Starlight and Pinkie. Dynamo had to admit that he was at a loss. He really wanted to let the race happen, but he didn't want to jeopardize the racer's. Even he had to admit, seeing the state of how everything was in now, it looked like the race would be cancelled, or at the very least, postponed. Just as he was about to make the call, Dynamo was stopped as he saw a blue dot in the sky. At first, he thought it was the sky beginning to clear up, but upon closer inspection, he saw that it was Rainbow Dash! He had actually wondered where Rainbow was as he was hoping to ask her for an update on the weather. As she landed upon the stage, he had a concerned look on his face as she was slip sliding. 'I guess the stage is a little more slippery than I thought with how it's been raining. Got to make sure to be careful of that for everyone that does walk on stage.' He thought to himself to make a mental note as the rainbow maned pegasus made her way over towards him.

"Rainbow! I'm glad that you're here. I was about to ask for an update on the weather, but it looks like the rain beat us to it." He says, feeling concerned and hoped that there would be any good news. Upon listening to her updated weather report, Dynamo was still torn, but he felt a sense of hope from the news. He pondered in the rain, before coming to a decision. 'I really hope I don't regret this decision.' He thought, before taking a shaky breath. "Attention, everypony! To those in the audience, please don't adjust your seats. To those that are participating, please make your way over to the starting line. I know this might sound like an odd announcement, but I was just given word that it will be raining for a short time, but it will clear up shortly. So, the race is still a go!" He announced, hoping that the report was true. "Just as a reminder, I want you all to know that flying isn't allowed in the race. However, gliding is still allowed. Along with some magic in the off chance that you need to light the way or in need of defending yourself." He explained, while a vendor was opening up for rain hats, jackets and boots for audience members to wear. It would also be available for racer's that wanted to keep the rain out of their face.

@Silverspark184 @PrincessPriscillaPT @Samurai Equine @Nitobit @Wizard @Livealarm @ComanderZhabikKlavik @Iridescent Edge @SidewinderX @liujiadong @Nook Cranny @Dusk Haven

As he looked at the racer's to double check if any question were needed to be asked, he noticed that everyone was either stretching or taking their spot on the starting line. With a nod, he levitated a green flag over towards him. "With all that being said, I want to wish you all good luck! Even though this is a race, the most important thing is to have fun!" Dynamo exclaimed, raising the flag in preparation to begin the competition, while having a determined expression upon his face. 

"Now then, ON YOUR MARK!"

...

"GET SET!!"

...

There was a momentary silence as everyone waited with baited breath for the race to begin. The only sound accompanying that silence was the pitter patter of the falling rain hitting the ground. Widening his eyes slightly, the gaming unicorn brought down the flag as the time had come to begin.

"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

Dynamo exclaimed, waving the flag to signal the racers that they could start running. The Running of the Leaves has truly begun!

Obstacle Number 1:

The start of the run. The area is muddy, slippery, and crowded from ponies running around. The first problem is finding a way to begin the race without tripping and falling right at the start.

Next obstacle on September 15th

[Dusk Haven 87]

4 hours ago, Dynamo Pad said:

As he kept his eyes peeled to see if anyone passing by to sign up, the gaming unicorn had taken notice of a unicorn mare. She had a cloak fastened around her neck, while it draped over the rest of her body. "Hello and there's still plenty of time for sign ups! In fact, we're just about to start soon, so we're taking a few more submissions in case they were interested in the race. You heard right! The Running of the Leaves is always a lot of fun to both watch and take part in!" Dynamo smiled, shaking his head at the mention of bits. "Oh, no. Bits are not needed to sign up. Fliers and invitations had been sent out to anypony that wished to sign up. If you are on the clipboard, then you are given a number and are set to compete. What's you name? Let me see if I can give you a number, as well." He looked through the pile of papers for available numbers as he smiled, before giving the paper to the cloaked mare. "Here you go! You can have number 20! That will be one free hug, please! If that's okay, of course as hugs are optional."

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A smile curled across her features as she took in the information. The pony before her appeared kind and energetic; the type you would want to around to make any occasion exciting. When he was done explaining, she nodded in respect. "Thank you. My name is Dusk Haven, Dusk for short." She took the number in her violet magic and looked over its simplicity. She never interacted with mass groups like this, but the temptation was too much. She told herself to "Live a little". "Oh, a hug? Of course!" She leaned forward and wrapped her arm around his neck and gave a brief squeeze. It was warm and gentle. Just as all hugs should be. "Thanks again. I'll take my place. See you out there!"

 

[Dusk Haven 87]

1 hour ago, Dynamo Pad said:

 

As he looked at the racer's to double check if any question were needed to be asked, he noticed that everyone was either stretching or taking their spot on the starting line. With a nod, he levitated a green flag over towards him. "With all that being said, I want to wish you all good luck! Even though this is a race, the most important thing is to have fun!" Dynamo exclaimed, raising the flag in preparation to begin the competition, while having a determined expression upon his face. 

"Now then, ON YOUR MARK!"

...

"GET SET!!"

...

There was a momentary silence as everyone waited with baited breath for the race to begin. The only sound accompanying that silence was the pitter patter of the falling rain hitting the ground. Widening his eyes slightly, the gaming unicorn brought down the flag as the time had come to begin.

"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

Dynamo exclaimed, waving the flag to signal the racers that they could start running. The Running of the Leaves has truly begun!

Obstacle Number 1: October 8th

The start of the run. The area is muddy, slippery, and crowded from ponies running around. The first problem is finding a way to begin the race without tripping and falling right at the start.

Dusk looked up as a plump raindrop fell on her head near the base of her horn. The sky was darkening but no lightening, at least not yet. She used her magic to pull the hood of her cloak over head. Just another storm in the countless she had traveled through before. She raised her leg as the dirt slowly changed to mud. The ground was largely flat and lacked good traction. The first step of this race would be to not fall down. Cool. She was good at that. She glimpsed at the other runners and took note of each, just in case some healing was needed on some lonely parts of the trail where maybe help couldn't see. She tested the ground again and anchored herself well. The rain fell more steady, but it was still shy. She whipped her tail and flung the water out of it. Wet tails were awful. She looked up to the sky, said some words quietly to herself, and focused on the trail. The green flag was raised before her and a devilish grin formed. Once @Dynamo Pad yelled out "GO", it was off to the races.

[Moonlight Wane]

"I knew I should've worn something." The bat pony grumbles, looking at the new unicorn with a cloak. He approaches the vendor and buys some cheap boots for traction, and a jacket. After a moment of consideration, he also buys a rain hat.

@Wizard

"Hey, Titanium!" He puts the hat on her head. "Here. Let's protect that signature paint in your mane, hehe."

He makes his way to the starting line, standing next to Titanium and putting a hood on his head. "Good luck."

[Dusk Haven 87]

Once everyone had lined up and the flag had swung, she ran over the rules in her head. No flying but a little magic for light, defense, or offer a little boost. That was fair. The race was about cleverness and endurance. A thought came to her and a whisper of magic encased the bottom of her hooves in spiked ice, acting as traction. That would be a little boost. It was a simple enough spell she used in winter when she walked over frozen lakes. If it was too much magic, she was sure she would have it called out by judges. One problem down. She looked ahead and noted all the other ponies blocking the trail. Well, that was easy enough to solve though it would solve the problem for the other contestants that were close to her too. Oh well, the trail was long and there would be other ways to pull ahead. She yelled out "Free bits to buy caramel apple slices!" She pulled her bit purse out, the one she had brought if there was a fee to participate in the race, from the bottom and flung most of its contents off the trail and by the closest vender which just so happened to sell said apple slices; the bits golden hue reflecting on what little sun could be seen from the gray sky. She watched as just enough ponies moved out of the way to collect their prize for her to weave through at a trot and, once through, icy spikes on her shoes, tore off at full gallop. She gave a nod to the Bat pony who's idea to buy boots was simple, but incredibly effective. He would be one to watch on the course later.

[Samurai Equine 56,069]

19 hours ago, Dusk Haven said:

Dusk walks calmly upon the staging grounds for the event; her cloak fastened around her neck, draping over her flank and sides. She inhales the scent and notes the delicious motes of fresh cider, caramel, and freshly cut apples. Her horn flickers as she double-checks her glamour. All is good. She wanders the different vendor stalls, and her stomach rumbles with all the fantastic options. She opts for water right now until she can secure her place in the race. No time to spare, according to the signage. She moves about from pony to pony until she finds the one she thinks is @Dynamo Pad.

"Excuse me. I was hoping you still have some slots left for the "Running of the Leaves event. I've heard it's fun, but I have only watched at a distance before. I have bits if needed."

Samurai notices Dusk and waves as they cross paths. "Good luck in the race." Samurai tells her as they pass.

10 hours ago, Dynamo Pad said:

"You can say that again. It's been far too long. I'm glad to hear that you're doing well and we really need to catch up after the race." Dynamo says, smiling happily as he returned the hug. "I can imagine the number 95 could be a time we were given a Godzilla movie. Channel the power of Godzilla as you run! I know that you and everypony participating got this. Take care and talk to you soon, bro!" He exclaimed, waving at Roswell's retreating form as he went back to his work.

As he kept his eyes peeled to see if anyone passing by to sign up, the gaming unicorn had taken notice of a unicorn mare. She had a cloak fastened around her neck, while it draped over the rest of her body. "Hello and there's still plenty of time for sign ups! In fact, we're just about to start soon, so we're taking a few more submissions in case they were interested in the race. You heard right! The Running of the Leaves is always a lot of fun to both watch and take part in!" Dynamo smiled, shaking his head at the mention of bits. "Oh, no. Bits are not needed to sign up. Fliers and invitations had been sent out to anypony that wished to sign up. If you are on the clipboard, then you are given a number and are set to compete. What's you name? Let me see if I can give you a number, as well." He looked through the pile of papers for available numbers as he smiled, before giving the paper to the cloaked mare. "Here you go! You can have number 20! That will be one free hug, please! If that's okay, of course as hugs are optional."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

@Silverspark184 @PrincessPriscillaPT @Samurai Equine @Nitobit @Livealarm @ComanderZhabikKlavik @Wizard @Iridescent Edge @SidewinderX @liujiadong @Nook Cranny @Dusk Haven

As he began to make his way towards the main stage, Dynamo remembered how he had felt in last year's event. He remembered being nervous, both for public speaking and worrying that the race would go well. Given the fact that he also wanted everyone in the race to have fun. This year, he was still nervous, but he felt more confident than he had been before. With each step he took, he felt braver and more self assured that everything would go well. While he didn't prepare flash cards, he knew it would be better to wing it. As he looked towards the sky, he noticed it had gotten a bit darker and very gray. Clouds were seen for miles that not a color of blue could be seen in the sky. 'I sure hope it doesn't rain. Got to stay optimistic, but I have this bad feeling for some reason.' Shaking his head to erase any doubts, he took a deep breath as he turned his attention towards the audience. "Hello, everypony! Thank you all so much for coming and I'd like to welcome you all to this year's The Running of the Leaves!" Dynamo says, hearing the round of applause from the audience, before everything became quiet once more. "I'm your host Dynamo Pad and I'll be hosting this race once more like last year. It looks like we've got ourselves some returning racers, as well as some new participants! Each of you has been given a number and is all set to begin!" He begins, using his magic to activate a projector on stage which showed a giant map. For both the racers and audience members to view.

Once you make your way past the starting line, you will be running through the White Tail Woods. As you make your way along the path, you might need to take a turn or two here and there. It's why this will be a bit different this year in comparison to last year's race! Always a good way to spice thing up and have some different obstacles. That's right! There will be a few obstacles for you to overcome as you head down the path and knocking down leaves along the way. There will be some arrows to mark the path so that you don't get lost along the way. Each obstacle that you come across will bring you one step closer to crossing the finish line! While flying is prohibited, using your wings to glide from time to time is still allowed. The same goes for those that are able to use magic as while spells aren't allowed to be used on the race to make things easier. They are still used in the off chance that you need a light spell or if you're stuck and need to use a spell to give you a boost. Even if gliding and some spells are allowed, the point is still run and knocking down leaves." He explained, pointing a hoof over towards Starlight and Pinkie Pie. "As for our vocal casters, Starlight Glimmer and Pinkie Pie will be your two two commentators throughout the race. They'll be taking a hot air balloon and get a good bird's eye view of the racer's competing. They have the numbers of our contestants, as well! Meaning they'll be able to give the play by play on which racer is out in front, or is able to knock down some leaves as they run." He says, while Starlight and Pinkie were making their way into the balloon.

"Do any of you have any questions, before we begin?" Dynamo turns to asks the racers, but was momentarily interrupted as he felt a raindrop drip upon his nose. Blinking in surprise, he looked up to see that more and more raindrops were starting to form and fall. Effectively turning into a drizzle before the race could begin. "I knew I shouldn't have thought about that bad feeling, but I guess that feeling wanted to prove a point." He sighed, worried and wondered what was going to happen now.

 

Samurai watches Dynamo go up to give the starting speech, paying close attention to the map.

What he doesn't notice is Moushley crawling off his back and running up to Dynamo. Once up close, she squeaks at him, as if trying to talk to him.

7 hours ago, Rainbow Dash said:

As the rain began to fall into a light drizzle, Rainbow Dash was flying as fast as she could towards the main stage. Despite the slight wind here and there, she knew that a little breeze wouldn't stop her from making her way to give her weather report. She had recalled that things weren't going to be bad in terms of the weather and she even guaranteed that things would be clear blue skies. However, it looked like things had been changed last second, or there was a change in plans that she wasn't aware of. She had double checked with the weather team if someone put in a different report, but she was met with the same response from each member on the team. 'I just don't understand why this had even occurred. I remember Dynamo, the weather team, everyone involved and I had made sure of what the race would look like beforehoof. There was no forecast for rain today.' She wondered as she saw the stage in her field of vision. As she glided her way towards the stage, she landed with a slide as the stage was a little wet and slippery from the rain. "Dynamo! I got an update for you!" She called out to the gaming unicorn, while walking briskly up towards him.

"It just rained out of nowhere last minute, but that's what it said in the weather report. It was going to rain, no matter what. At least, that's what the report that was given to myself and the team. We thought there was something wrong, but we found the report was legit. While it will be raining, the rain will eventually stop. When that will be, I don't exactly know. However, I think the race will still be good to go." Rainbow says, hoping that would be enough of a guarantee for the race to not be cancelled.

Samurai is a little surprised. "Huh, Rainbow Dash is here too? Guess these events just naturally attract the elements of harmony."

6 hours ago, Dynamo Pad said:

As his attention was divided from the sky, the racers, the audience, as well as Starlight and Pinkie. Dynamo had to admit that he was at a loss. He really wanted to let the race happen, but he didn't want to jeopardize the racer's. Even he had to admit, seeing the state of how everything was in now, it looked like the race would be cancelled, or at the very least, postponed. Just as he was about to make the call, Dynamo was stopped as he saw a blue dot in the sky. At first, he thought it was the sky beginning to clear up, but upon closer inspection, he saw that it was Rainbow Dash! He had actually wondered where Rainbow was as he was hoping to ask her for an update on the weather. As she landed upon the stage, he had a concerned look on his face as she was slip sliding. 'I guess the stage is a little more slippery than I thought with how it's been raining. Got to make sure to be careful of that for everyone that does walk on stage.' He thought to himself to make a mental note as the rainbow maned pegasus made her way over towards him.

"Rainbow! I'm glad that you're here. I was about to ask for an update on the weather, but it looks like the rain beat us to it." He says, feeling concerned and hoped that there would be any good news. Upon listening to her updated weather report, Dynamo was still torn, but he felt a sense of hope from the news. He pondered in the rain, before coming to a decision. 'I really hope I don't regret this decision.' He thought, before taking a shaky breath. "Attention, everypony! To those in the audience, please don't adjust your seats. To those that are participating, please make your way over to the starting line. I know this might sound like an odd announcement, but I was just given word that it will be raining for a short time, but it will clear up shortly. So, the race is still a go!" He announced, hoping that the report was true. "Just as a reminder, I want you all to know that flying isn't allowed in the race. However, gliding is still allowed. Along with some magic in the off chance that you need to light the way or in need of defending yourself." He explained, while a vendor was opening up for rain hats, jackets and boots for audience members to wear. It would also be available for racer's that wanted to keep the rain out of their face.

@Silverspark184 @PrincessPriscillaPT @Samurai Equine @Nitobit @Wizard @Livealarm @ComanderZhabikKlavik @Iridescent Edge @SidewinderX @liujiadong @Nook Cranny @Dusk Haven

As he looked at the racer's to double check if any question were needed to be asked, he noticed that everyone was either stretching or taking their spot on the starting line. With a nod, he levitated a green flag over towards him. "With all that being said, I want to wish you all good luck! Even though this is a race, the most important thing is to have fun!" Dynamo exclaimed, raising the flag in preparation to begin the competition, while having a determined expression upon his face. 

"Now then, ON YOUR MARK!"

...

"GET SET!!"

...

There was a momentary silence as everyone waited with baited breath for the race to begin. The only sound accompanying that silence was the pitter patter of the falling rain hitting the ground. Widening his eyes slightly, the gaming unicorn brought down the flag as the time had come to begin.

"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

Dynamo exclaimed, waving the flag to signal the racers that they could start running. The Running of the Leaves has truly begun!

Obstacle Number 1:

The start of the run. The area is muddy, slippery, and crowded from ponies running around. The first problem is finding a way to begin the race without tripping and falling right at the start.

Next obstacle on September 15th

Samurai is surprised at the weather forecast. "Rain?! Sweet Celestia... My natural enemy came to the race. Guess this will be tougher than I thought."

With hardly any other choice, Samurai zips up just jacket and puts the hood over his head. When the signal is given, Samurai kneels into position, and runs forward!

While Samurai did his best to run along the dry parts of the race course, he knew he could not avoid the mud forever. "Guess I have no choice... Just hope the judges allow this. It's not a boost, it's for my own survival." With some concentration, Samurai's horn glows. "Not exactly a punch, so let's call this, Flaming... STAMPEDE!" Light traces of fire ignite at the ends of Samurai's hooves. But they aren't being used to give him any speed boosts. Instead, they are being used to dry up any mud he steps on, as well as keep his hooves mud free.

[Iridescent Edge]

*Iridescent Edge conjured a small shield over his head as a makeshift umbrella. But what to do about the mud? He didn’t have much time to think about that as the instructor then signaled for the race to start. Iridescent took another look at the track, and then looked at the prices of the galoshes on the stand… Thinking quickly, Iridescent decided to just stick it out through the mud. Sure, it was a little slippery, but it was also squishy. It’s not like the road was made of ice. He trudged his way to the first tree and gave it a few firm bucks. He watched a few leaves fall from the tree and trudged to the next one, rinse and repeat.*

Edited yesterday at 02:34 PM by Iridescent Edge

[PrincessPriscillaPT 337]

*Priscilla's off to a good start, and thinking of some strategies while running in the race. Her first strategy is trying to save up her stamina, which could be good, as long as she has so much energy. She saw the racers ahead and kept her place for some occasions. She'll try to restrict herself from using either her wings or her horn/magic.*

Edited yesterday at 12:52 PM by PrincessPriscillaPT

[liujiadong 544]

Sunshine Rising noticed that Samurai Equine  and the others had overtaken her, so she started to speed up—you could hear the clatter of hooves. "Hey, is that a light rain coming down?" she said. "I love this damp weather! There are so many ponies this year... I gotta step it up!" And with that, she quickened her pace.

 

11 minutes ago, PrincessPriscillaPT said:

*Priscilla's off to a good start, and thinking of some strategies while running in the race. Her first strategy is trying to save up her stamina, which could be good, as long as she has so much energy. She saw the racers ahead and kept her place for some occasions. She'll try to restrict herself from using either her wings or her horn/magic.*

Sunshine smiled at her, greeting happily, "Hi there! Nice to meet you—have we met before? This is my first time competing, so good luck to you!" Even after she finished speaking, the smile lingered on her face.

 

 

 

[PrincessPriscillaPT 337]

9 minutes ago, liujiadong said:

Sunshine smiled at her, greeting happily, "Hi there! Nice to meet you—have we met before? This is my first time competing, so good luck to you!" Even after she finished speaking, the smile lingered on her face.

"Hello, Sunshine! Nice to meet ya, and good luck to you too!" *She continues with the race, trying to think of a strategy.*

[liujiadong 544]

Sunshine Rising looks a bit worn out—probably from not getting enough exercise lately. Her pink mane keeps fluttering against her neck as she says, 'The weather’s so nice and cool! Everyone’s doing great, keep it up!'

 

 

[PrincessPriscillaPT 337]

*"There should be another obstacle in the way. The mud seems to be speeding you up a little bit if I did it right."*

[Dusk Haven 87]

On 2025-09-09 at 7:45 AM, PrincessPriscillaPT said:

She'll try to restrict herself from using either her wings or her horn/magic.

Dusk took note of the other Alicorn in the race. Perhaps in this universe she didn't need to hide her form for regional stability and political purposes. It would be nice to stretch her wings after the race.

After the mud was cleared, her next hoof steps shattered the hard permafrost. She had her sights on a tree heavy with leaves. She trotted up, offered a firm buck and let some of the leaves fall around her. She took quick note of the ponies in front of and behind her. Many had cleared the mud. She smiled, loving the challenge, and headed toward the next trees in the distance.