http://neparunner.com
PRESS RELEASE: Run for the Cannoli 5K
(HAZLETON, Pa. 8-7-15) The 12th Annual Run for the Cannoli 5k is quickly approaching as the popular mid-summer foot race is set for Sunday, August 16 at 3:00 pm.
Held in conjunction with the St. Mauro’s Italian Festival at Queen of Heaven Parish in Hazleton, the 3.1-mile race takes off from 12th and Vine Streets and runs across the northwest section of the city with jaunts through parts of West Hazleton and Hazle Township before trekking back into town and onto the finish.
The top male/female runner will each earn $150, up $50 from seasons past. $75 for second and $50 for third will be paid to both male/female finishers respectively. Plus there is a $50 bonus to set a new course record (male and female) and $50 to the runner who finishes in 12th spot. Eligibility requirements apply for cash awards.
Apart from the top cash awards, medals will be distributed to the top three in age groups from 15 to 60+ years old. Also a race event T-shirt (while supplies last), $5 in St. Mauro Italian Festival food tickets and of course a cannoli will go to each entry.
Race organizers are also happy to announce that Aaron Russell, head cross country coach at Lock Haven University, has been named Grand Marshall of this year’s race.
In 2014 Russell was named the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Men's Cross Country Coach of the Year. It marked the second straight season where Russell has taken home top-honors as the PSAC Men's Coach of the Year and the seventh time in his career he's won the award. Russell was named the 2013 PSAC Men's Coach of the Year, grabbed the honor in 2008 and took home four straight of Coach of the Year awards from 2003-06.
Russell, also the 2014 U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Division II Atlantic Region Men's Coach of the Year, led the Bald Eagles to a 12th place finish at the 2014 NCAA National Championships.
“I’m really looking forward to coming to Hazleton for the Run for the Cannoli. I have heard so much about the race over the years from our team members and others who have done the event. I’m excited to meet up with all of the participants and be part of such a special event,” said Russell.
Chris Wadas of Courtdale is the two-time and defending overall champion of the race. He also holds the course record at 16:01. Marina Orrson of Shavertown is the reigning female champion and set the course record for the ladies at 17:41. Both are expected back as well as past Cannoli winners, Jeff Skwierz and Samantha Snukis.
Pre-race apps have been coming in a steady pace. Runners from throughout the Hazleton area and northeast Pennsylvania as well as all over the state as well as requests from New York and New Jersey have taken interest in this year’s 5K.
Race day registration fee is $22. Group rates are available.
|