Not a Runner? We Think You'll Make an Exception for This Event...

Not really into running, but love the after-party celebrations? Then this event is for you, and believe it or not, you'll actually be helping out a good cause, too.

Yes, it is a run. BUT DON'T LEAVE JUST YET!!! This isn't a 5K or even half of that. It's less... a LOT less. This race is a .5K. That's not a "Five-K," it's "Point-Five-K." As someone who hates running, this is a race I can get on board with, and I think you can, too.

The "race" is being put on by the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area, and will take place on Saturday, October 13th. The United Way says,

Beginning at the REAL Boilermaker finish line, you know, the back parking lot of the Saranac Brewery, this course goes ALL THE WAY around the corner to the Celtic Harp courtyard, for a whopping total of 500-something yards!

Can you handle 500 yards? The United Way jokes that if you need to take a break, there's a coffee and donut shop in the middle that you can stop at. Maybe grab a coffee for some caffeinated energy?? Or a donut for those carbs?? Either way, when you're done with the race, you'll get to enjoy a great after party at the Celtic Harp. Besides the after parties are what makes these races all worth it, right?

At the after party you can enjoy a free beer for your efforts and an awesome sticker that shows off your ".5K" running abilities. If you're still thirsty, there will be more beer and other beverages available for purchase.

I mentioned earlier that you would actually be helping out a good cause by participating in this event. 100% of your registration fee goes to the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area, and will be used to help the 1 in 4 people in our community that uses their services and resources.

So why not?? Show off to all your running friends that you're a runner as well - And you even have a sticker to prove it! Sign up now for the "second-best-Utica-bestest-shortest race ever." Cost is $20 per person. You can register online at: UnitedWayGU.wufoo.com

Online registration closes on Friday, October 12th (the day before the run). In person registration for the run will be at 9am on Saturday, October 13th in the back Saranac Parking Lot on Edward Street. The race will start at 10am and is a rain or shine event.