Calling all runners, walkers and supporters of elementary athletics – The 2nd Annual Pinnacle 5K and one- mile run is set for Friday, May 14, 6 pm. Proceeds from the race will go to benefit the students of Pinnacle Charter School and their new athletic equipment including baseball mitts, yoga mats, basketballs, and other equipment. Without support, these students would not otherwise have access to or have the means to purchase this equipment.
While other area schools are cutting back on athletics and culturals,
Pinnacle Charter School has doubled the size of their athletic programs
in 2010. The school offers a variety of after-school programs designed
to keep students active and engaged, including a partnership with
Griffis Sculpture Park. Through cooperation with Griffis, students
have the opportunity to create steel sculptures, which are later made
into large-scale versions, that you’ll find adorning the front of
Pinnacle’s grounds. Students also receive physical education three to
four times per week and have the opportunity to participate in sports
and wellness programs during unique 30-minute sessions in the middle of
the day and after-school athletics. The students and staff at Pinnacle
have a strong wellness focus, which is why you’ll see many of them
participating in and enjoying the 5K race and one-mile fun run on May
14.
This is not your ordinary 5K.
Whether you’re a competitive or leisurely runner, this USA Track & Field sanctioned course will satiate your running desires. Not a runner? No problem. The one-mile fun run/walk is just enough of an excuse to get you out of the house, exercising, and having a good time – all while supporting a great cause. Be sure to stick around for the post-race party at Eberl Iron Works, featuring music, food and a beer tent.
Traversing through the scenic streets of Downtown Buffalo, this race is fast and flat – your times should reflect it. Defending male and female champions, Anthony Cinotti and Erin Conley, will look to maintain their top spots, while competing with some of the strongest runners in WNY. With solid competition, this race is also a great tune-up and 5K pace check for the Buffalo Marathon.
In lieu of a traditional trophy, the overall men’s and women’s winner will receive a custom designed steel sculpture, courtesy of Simon Griffis. This is the only 5K in the area in which the winners are awarded a one-of- a-kind piece of modern art designed by the folks from Griffis Sculpture Park. In addition to the steel sculptures, Pinnacle Charter School has received generous donations from Excuria Salon & Spa and The BAC for Women. Pre-registered runners/ walkers will also have the chance to check their cinch sack for healthy and active living prizes donated by WNY Karate Center, Buffalo Yoga, Buffalo Historical Society, and Buffalo Museum of Science, among others.
To register, visit www.pinnaclewny.org or find the event on Facebook and share it with your friends. For more information, contact our race director, Erin Lingle, at (716) 583-3055 or elingle@pinnaclywny.org.
Special ‘thanks’ go to Buffalo Steak & Sub and online thymes llc as the Gold Sponsors for the event for the second consecutive year. Additional ‘thanks’ are extended to Evans Bank, MidCity Office Furniture, Elbers Landscaping, Maintenance Management & Associates, and Ferraro & Hauser, LLP – without their support this race could not take place.
Photo: Todd Salansky