Pit Run to return for 2021
STAFF REPORT • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com
The 28th Pit Run, in honor of late State Trooper Ricky J. Parisian, will take place Sunday, Oct. 3, in Oneonta.
“We are so excited to announce our 28th annual event,” Race Director Dave Weaver said in a media release. “Not only does the Pit Run celebrate Ricky J. Parisian’s heroism, but it celebrates the best attributes of the greater Oneonta community. It is a wonderful family event, not just a running race!”
The Pit Run was started in 1994 to celebrate and remember Parisian’s life and service. Parisian died that year while trying to stop an armed robbery at the Great American food store in Oneonta.
All money raised from the run goes directly to the Ricky J. Parisian Foundation, which has awarded over $609,745 in scholarships and community grants since its inception.
Oneonta High School graduate Elizabeth Dixon is the 2021 scholarship award winner.
Every registrant of the 2021 Pit Run will receive a race t-shirt and a Brooks BBQ chicken dinner.
According to the media release, the 2021 Pit Run will be held in consultation with Center for Disease Control and statet Department of Health guidelines to ensure safety precautions are taken.
There will also be kids activities in Neahwa Park, including a no-cost kid’s fun run, ballooning, selfie stations and other kid friendly activities.
The featured 5K and challenging 10K running races draw participants from all over the east coast. An option to participate virtually will also be available to accommodate all individuals at their own comfort level.
For more information or to volunteer, contact the Pit Run Hotline at 607-432-8068 or Katie Lossi at 607-267-2577 or Katiellossi@gmail.com.