Are you ready to run? Follow in the footsteps of last year’s runners by entering in the 5th Annual Strawberry Shake 5K Road Race and Walk and the Kids’ 1 Mile Fun Run. Both races will be held opening night of the Owego Strawberry Festival on Friday, June 17 and will start and finish at the Tioga County office building parking lot on Academy Street, Owego.
The mostly flat and fast 5K race route takes the runners and walkers along the Susquehanna River and through the streets of lovely, historic downtown Owego, as well as straight through the Strawberry Festival itself.
The Kids Run begins at 6 p.m. and the 5K Race/Walk begins at 7 p.m. Awards will be given in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place categories for various age groups for males and females.
Pre-registration is open now. The Kids’ Run is for ages five to 10 only; all others should register for the 5K Run/Walk. The pre-registration entry fee is $25 for the 5K and $10 for the Kids’ Run and ends at midnight on Thursday, June 9. All registrations that come in after that time will pay Race Day entry fees of $30 for the 5K and $15 for the Kids’ Run. There are no refunds for cancellations.
The first 900 pre-registered runners will receive a race T-shirt. All runners will be treated to complimentary bottled water, fruit, and coupons for festival activities.
Race bib pick-up and day of registration will be held from 2 to 6:45 p.m. for the 5K Race and from 2 to 5:45 p.m. for the Kids Run. There is no registration or packet pick-up after 6:45 p.m.
The race directors reserve the right to reject any entry for any reason. The race is partly run with traffic on a state highway, so dogs are absolutely forbidden. Jogging strollers are allowed. Those observing poor manners towards motorists or not obeying the traffic marshals will be disqualified. The race has been certified by USA Track & Field. No refunds for cancellations.
Proceeds will benefit Owego Gymnastics, the Owego-Apalachin School District Swim Team, and the Newark Valley Soccer Club. For more information, contact Christine at crhafer@yahoo.com or the Tioga County Tourism Office at (607) 687-7440, info@visittioga.com, or visit the race website at owegostrawberryfestival.com.
The 36th Annual Strawberry Festival is being held Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 18 in downtown Owego. After the race, come be a part of the fun and excitement by sampling the great food, visiting the unique and creative shops, and touring the many offerings of local artisans and vendors that line the streets.
