By: Tom Tarapacki
Organizers call it “the social running event of the summer,” and it’s hard to argue against that contention. The Buffalo Subaru 4-Mile Chase attracts hundreds of runners, from joggers to elite athletes, as well as many people who just turn out for the festive post-race party. The annual event returns to the Elmwood Village for the 30th time on Friday, July 16th at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know: The race is four miles long, and it starts and ends on Bidwell near Elmwood. It costs $20 for an early entry and $25 on the day of the race. Also, it’s just $5 for anyone 14 and under, and free for anyone 70 and over. Proceeds will benefit the Police Athletic League of Buffalo. Shirts are given to the first 1,100 entrants, and it’s a good idea to register early to make sure you get one. Last year, despite some heavy rain, the race drew nearly 900 runners. The race day events kick off at 11 AM with the Pre-Race Expo and Registration at Elmwood and Bidwell. There’s also a 5:00 PM happy hour with live music before the race. After the race there’s a post-race party that’s open to the public with live music featuring the Nickel City Pimp Choir, entertainment, and “very deep” age group awards.
The Race Director, Jim Nowicki–who was named one of the Buffalo News’ Outstanding Citizens for 2009 in large part for his many years of work on the Subaru Chase–is once again race director.
Many people attend the race just to watch some very fast runners. The Subaru attracts elite runners from around the world who compete for $10,000 in prize money and course record bonuses. The course record is a very fast 17 minutes and 53 seconds, held by Joseph Itati of Kenya.
There’s also some fun planned for the day before the race. This year, the legendary Bill Rodgers, four-time winner of the Boston and New York City Marathons, will be in attendance. The day before the race, Thursday, July 15th, Rodgers will conduct a free running clinic and a short “sight-seeing” run. According to Jim Nowicki, the run will be about 2 miles long and take in the Olmsted parks system and the Elmwood Village area.
Nowicki has been involved in the race for all 30 years, but he’s particularly excited that Subaru has been a major sponsor for the past 25 years. The downturn in the economy has left many races struggling to find sponsorships, but Subaru has continued to back this race. “Subaru’s long-term commitment to Buffalo and Western New York has been fantastic,” said Nowicki.
Since this is an anniversary year, everyone is asked to bring their old Subaru t-shirts to the event, either to wear them while running or after the run.
For more information go to www.buffalosubaruchase.com, and you can register online at www.active.com.