Owning a pet goat, well, that isn’t for everybody, but owning one and waking up in the morning to see it on social media running a marathon? That’s wild. This isn’t your scripted story; this is precisely what happened to Jeremy and Heidi Taylor of Newfoundland when their resident goat Joshua broke out from their home called Taylor’s Pumpkin Patch and joined the underway local half marathon. What happened next only highlighted the event to thousands on social media and you can well imagine who the show’s star was.
A Race with a Surprise Competitor
Sunday, the 29th of September 2024, saw 250 runners participating in the inaugural T’Railway Trek Half Marathon in Conception Bay South, Newfoundland. The run promised scenic views, eager runners, and a day of community spirit. The route passed a local business called The Pumpkin Patch, run by Jeremy and Heidi Taylor, who owned a goat, Joshua. Joshua was quite a character who loved socializing with humans and a unique personality.
Joshua Broke Loose to Join the Marathon.
When the runners passed his home, Joshua broke loose. How could he not take part in the event of a lifetime? He broke from his collar and escaped the patch, following the humans. If they were running? Well, so would he. That’s right, Joshua decided to trade his pen for the pavement when the race passed his home.
Speaking to the media about Joshua, an amused Mayor Darrin Bent recalled: “When the runners went past the pumpkin patch, Joshua thought, ‘Why stay here? I’ll join in!'” And join in, he did. Joshua kept pace with the human runners for an impressive four kilometers before his owners caught up with him.
The Taylors Learn of Joshua’s Antics on Social Media
As runners posted about the unexpected participant, Heidi learned of Joshua’s impromptu race aspirations through social media. Both Jeremy and Heidi were shocked, amazed, and amused in the same breath. Of course, worried about Joshua, they drove down to catch up with Joshua. Taylor later remarked, “He broke his collar, which he had for years, and joined the race. I guess he figured, why not?” Taylor explained, chuckling at his goat’s newfound ambition for long-distance running.
Joshua, The Star of The Show
Used to being around large crowds, Joshua seamlessly blended into the group of runners. Taylor noted, “When he saw everyone running, he couldn’t resist and went for it. He didn’t know this was one of the longest runs of his life!”
Word of Joshua’s unexpected participation spread quickly along the course. He was already a celebrity and the show stopper. The Taylors decided to let Joshua complete the race and walked with him for the last half km till the finish line.
A New Local Celebrity
As soon as Joshua crossed the finish line, much to the delight of spectators who cheered him on, Mayor Bent put a medal around him. Joshua was the star of the day, an instant viral sensation with whom everyone wanted a photo including the local Police Station. He was also a local celebrity whose presence highlighted the event on social media.
Joshua’s days spending time in the pumpkin Patch are over. Since the marathon escapade, his stardom has made him much in demand. While Mayor Bent hopes Joshua will also grace the event next year, Josh will drop the puck at a C.B.S. Renegades hockey game this week. Way to go, Joshua.
Check out the video of Joshua, the marathon goat.
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