-By Barbara Arnstein-
This Saturday September 10th, the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce is once again hosting the Allegheny River Running Fest in Olean, NY. The fest now features three races: a 5K, 10K, and a Half Marathon distance. All of them will begin and end at War Veteran’s Park, at 551 East State Street, in Olean. Part of the 10K and Half Marathon races will be run beside the scenic Allegheny River on the area’s Allegheny River Valley Trail. The 5K route will loop through the city of Olean.
Erica Dreher, the GOACC Member Services Manager, said, “We are looking forward to bringing this race to our area for the third year in a row and hoping that the newly added 5K distance will bring even more people out to enjoy the event. The 5K loop runs through Downtown Olean and should allow for a quick paced run. The 10K and Half Marathon distances offer the runner a bit more of a challenge and either option takes you onto the picturesque Allegheny River Trail (hence the name). “
For the first time this year vendor Lisa Ralston of Me Life Love will be at the park offering some brief breathing, stretching and yoga sessions beginning at 7am. These sessions will be open to the public. “You do not have to be a race participant to come down to the park on Saturday and check out the fest”, stated Dreher. Dana Boser, LMT will also be in the park offering mini-massage sessions during the event.
Genesis House will be there from 10am-1pm with a magician and activities for the kids to enjoy. There are also two chances for kids 12 and under to participate in the 100-yard dash fun run at 10am and 12pm. “The run was a hit with kids who participated last year so we are hoping even more kids will come down and run this year. Sign-ups are on the day of the races, at the park under the chamber tent”, Dreher continued.”
Those participating in the run can look forward to food at a pre-run snack station sponsored by Tim Horton’s. The post-run “refueling food” will be provided courtesy of Pizzaland in Portville. The Four Mile Brewing Co will be sponsoring the beer tent, which will be available to festival guests age 21 or older.
“Finisher medals depicting Olean’s unofficial city mascot the squirrel, will be awarded to all participants crossing the finish line,” stated Meme Yanetsko, Chief Operating Officer of the Chamber. “Trophies will be given to top female and male finishers in each event. Those participants finishing at the top in their age groups will also be presented with a special prize highlighting the uniqueness of our community and race”, continued Yanetsko.” The Last Acorn prize will be given out to the final registrant of the Half Marathon to cross the finish line.
“Come for the Run and stay for the fun”, said Dreher. “Whatever route you choose, the park after-party will have family-friendly events for everyone to enjoy at the end, including a magician, games and two 100-yard dash fun run options for kids. One is scheduled for 10am and the other is at noon. Registration for both can be done on the day of the races, at the park, under the Chamber tent.”
Participants must be at least thirteen years old, and they can register until the races begin on the day of the races. The Half Marathon will begin at 9am, and costs $90 to enter, while the 10K at 9:15am costs $65, and the 5K at 9:30am costs participants $25. All entry fees are non-refundable. Bikes, dogs, skateboards, in-line skates, etc. will not be allowed on the race routes. A virtual option to participate is also available. Simply run the race where you are and upload your time through September 30 to receive a finishers medal. Virtual registrants will receive the swag bag and race participant shirt but are ineligible to receive any top prizes. Register at https://alleghenyriverrunningfest.itsyourrace.com/register/. Register by September 8 using code SQUIRREL10 to receive $10 off.
For more information, go to alleghenyriverrunningfest.org.