PITTSTON, Pa. — Registration is now open for the 2nd Annual Wyoming Valley Run.
"It's super exciting for year two. we have the energy and the knowledge of last year, and we can pull it all together, and it's a lot more organized. we kind of know what we're taking on. we have the foundation laid, so it's really exciting to make it bigger and better," said Gareth Henderson, Wyoming Valley Race Board President.
For runners, walkers, and hand cyclists, the 10-mile Wyoming Valley run starts here in the city of Pittston. and then goes over the Susquehanna River and through West Pittston, Exeter, Wyoming, Forty Fort, Kingston, and ends here in the city of Wilkes-Barre on Public Square.
"It's super flat right along Wyoming Ave. Yeah, a lot of folks came out last year that it was their first double-digit race, and they were super excited about that," said Ben Robinson, Wyoming Valley Run Race Director.
It has become a tradition for the Wyoming Valley run to benefit five different charities. Everybody who signs up to participate can pick which nonprofit organization they are running for.
"Our community is so supportive of all the charities and nonprofits that we have it's nice to pull it all together and be a one-stop to give back to whatever charity speaks most to an individual," explained Henderson.
This year, the beneficiaries include two from the inaugural run, NEPA Cancer Wellness Center and Northeast Sight Services.
New to the list for year two include The Greater Wyoming Valley YMCA, the Wyoming Valley Children's Association, and Blue Chip Animal Farm Refuge.
Not only do volunteers at Blue Chip appreciate the gesture of inclusion, but the puppies appreciate it too.
"It's awesome. We really love it when people think of us to raise money; the running events bring in a lot of money, and it's a great thing to do with us. we appreciate it," said Marge Bart, Founder & President of Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge.
Furry friends are hoping for thousands to sign up for this year's race through the Wyoming Valley.
"If we didn't have fundraising and funds, we wouldn't be able to do what we do," said Marge.
Registration for the run opened Monday morning and will be available at a discounted rate until the end of the week. For more information, click here.