Photo Gallery: Get the Gorilla 5K

Over 400 runners of all ages took to Buccleuch Park on Nov. 13 for the 2011 Get the Gorilla 5k race/walk, some choosing to complete the race dressed in their finest and most unusual costumes.

The days' events included an open 5k, an elite women's 5k, an elite men's 8k, a kiddie race, a costume contest, and a centipede contest all in historic Buccleuch Park.

After much deliberation from the judging panel, the top three costumes that won the contest prize money were a UPS Delivery Women (third), Darth Vader (second), and a Lasso-Swinging Cowboy (first).

The prize-winning centipede participants went as four gorillas in bridal gowns, barely edging out the bananas, the GU packets, and the Where's Waldo group. 

Custom medals were also awarded to the top-three runners in all five-year age categories.

In the elite team races, the Central Park Track Club edged out the Garden State Track Club in the 8k men's team scoring, and they dominated the women's 5k race.

The Garden State Track Club's own Jeff Perrella won the Elite 8k in 25:57, with New Brunswick resident and teammate Mike Dixon finishing in 8th.

"We were very thankful for CPTC driving out from NYC to compete against our elite athletes," race director Chuck Schneekloth said. "They have a great club, and we look forward to continuing this New Jersey vs. New York border bash rivalry next year."

The race collected 11 large garbage bags of running equipment, which was donated by participating runners.

The Garden State Track Club's outreach initiative, Essays 4 Equipment, donates new and gently used running gear to inner-city youth runners who request it in writing.