CITY SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR 34TH ANNUAL NEWARK DISTANCE CLASSIC
5K and 20K RACE SET FOR SUNDAY, MARCH 29
Race marshals, registrars, and water stop staff sought for annual race which
attracts runners from across the globe who are ready to tackle Newark’s streets, hills, and parks
Runners must register by March 20 or can sign-up the day of the race
5K and 20K RACE SET FOR SUNDAY, MARCH 29
Race marshals, registrars, and water stop staff sought for annual race which
attracts runners from across the globe who are ready to tackle Newark’s streets, hills, and parks
Runners must register by March 20 or can sign-up the day of the race
Newark, NJ - March 11, 2009 - Mayor Cory A. Booker and Neighborhood and Recreational Services’ Director Melvin Waldrop announced today that the City of Newark is hosting its 34th Annual Distance Classic on Sunday, March 29, 2009, and is seeking volunteers to ensure the success of this annual 5K and 20K run, the first distance event of the 2009 running season. The Division of Recreation/Cultural Affairs needs volunteers to serve on race day to register runners, to man water stops, and act as race marshals.
This annual 5K and 20K run will tip off on Sunday, March 29, 2009, starting at 9:30 a.m. Cash awards will be given out for the top three male and female 20K overall finishers, as well as the top three USA Track Federation for New Jersey-certified male and female finishers, and the top three Masters USATF-New Jersey male and female finishers.
“The Newark Distance Classic attracts athletes from around the world who choose the streets and hills of Newark to test their strength, dedication, and commitment,” Mayor Booker said. “I encourage all Newarkers to help us extend a warm welcome to racers of all ages, and show our unity and love as a city, by serving as volunteers on race day.”
Volunteers are sought to register runners before the race and provide them with numbers and race gear, and to man water stops during the run, and to ensure the run proceeds smoothly by serving as race marshals.
The race is the first of the nation’s distance running season, and is considered a warm-up for events like the Boston Marathon and other major marathons. USA Track & Field New Jersey and New Balance North Jersey is co-sponsoring the run. The challenging route takes runners through Newark’s downtown and Branch Brook Park, and will be held rain or shine.
The race is certified by the USA Track Federation for New Jersey. All registrations postmarked before March 20, 2009, are $20. Registrations postmarked after that cost $25. Registration closes at 9 a.m. on race day, Sunday, March 29, 2009. Everyone competing in the run will receive a race souvenir t-shirt. Runners muster for the race by 9 a.m. at Rutgers University Gymnasium (Golden Dome), located at 42 Warren Street, Newark, New Jersey. Support Volunteers should arrive earlier.
For more information on competing or volunteering, contact Miriam Santiago at (973) 733-3749.
Contact: Newark Press Information Office - (973) 733-8004.
