On August 29, the IMPACT: Friends Improving Allegany County Trails Inc. hosted a successful trail walk and run event that attracted 171 participants. The event took place within the scenic routes of Phillips Creek, Turnpike, and Palmer’s Pond state forests, providing a beautiful backdrop for both competitive runners and casual walkers.
Participants had the option to compete in three walking divisions and three running divisions, reflecting the event's inclusive nature. The second annual gathering featured a range of distances, including a 25-kilometer trail race, as well as 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer runs and walks. Organizers reported favorable weather conditions with cool temperatures and clear skies, which contributed to a vibrant atmosphere for the event.
The participation breakdown revealed a strong turnout across all categories: 52 individuals took part in the 5K walk, 22 in the 10K walk, 46 in the 5K run, 26 in the 10K run, and 25 in the challenging 25K run. The 25K race commenced at 7:15 a.m. from the Phillips Creek trailhead, with volunteers stationed along the course to ensure safety and support for all participants.
Over 90 volunteers played a crucial role in the event's success, assisting with trail preparation, course marking, and managing water and emergency stations. Their dedication was vital in creating a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Volunteers included members from various organizations, such as the A.U. Honors Student Service Committee and the A.U. Women’s Soccer Team, along with local Scouts and Trail Riders from the New York State Horse Council.
IMPACT also recognized the essential support provided by local emergency services, which included the A.E. Crandall Hook and Ladder Co., Alfred Station Fire Co., and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office. Their presence ensured that all safety protocols were followed, allowing participants to focus on their performance.
The event concluded with the announcement of race winners across all categories. In the 5K men's race, Nickolas Schoenthal took first place, followed by Ryan Baird and Robert Keir. The women's 5K race saw Kirsten Dininny finish first, with Vladyslava Makarenko and Caitlin Clarke rounding out the top three. In the 10K men's race, Elijah Latko claimed victory, while Heidi Strauss won the women's division. The 25K race winners included Ben Allen for the men and Mary LeBrun Schultz for the women.
Financial support from local businesses and individuals was instrumental in making the event possible. Sponsors were categorized into different levels based on their contributions, with walnut-level sponsors including Saputo USA and the Bethesda Foundation of Hornell. Maple-level sponsors such as Cunningham, Stauring & Associates Inc. and Larry’s Latrines also provided significant backing, while numerous other local businesses contributed at varying levels.
Looking ahead, IMPACT plans to host the trail run event again on the fourth Saturday of August in 2027. They are also encouraging community involvement in upcoming trail maintenance days, with the next scheduled for September 19. For those interested in joining the effort, more information about membership and volunteer opportunities can be found on the IMPACT website.
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