Upcoming event

Oak Tree Half Marathon ready for Year Eight

Livingston County’s largest running race is gearing up for Sunday, Sept. 2. In its eighth year, the Oak Tree Half Marathon and 5K is expected to be the largest turnout yet of runners and walkers.

Held annually on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend in Geneseo, the event benefits the conservation efforts of the not-for-profit Genesee Valley Conservancy. Race organizers anticipate over 700 participants this year.

In 2011, Oak Tree participants and spectators were treated to several outstanding performances, including two new course records.

In the half marathon, Mount Morris native Tim Chichester posted a remarkable 1:09:09, setting a new course record by four minutes and beating his closest competition by nearly twelve minutes.

In the 5k, Bobby Henchen of Geneseo posted a course record of 15:49.00, bettering the previous course record set in 2010 by 38 seconds. Local runner Laura Anderson of Conesus won the women’s half marathon and Kaitlin Coopman of Canada became the first international Oak Tree winner by taking the women’s 5k.

This year’s race is presented by the Bank of Castile, Tompkins Insurance Agencies, and Tompkins Financial Advisors. Returning and new runners will be treated to a well-organized event with over 50 of volunteers, live music on the course by local musicians, and a delicious post-race party. Participants will also receive an event t-shirt and be eligible for age group and random awards.

Both courses start and finish at the Geneseo Central School and travel through the National Historic Landmark District of Geneseo. The half marathon course also travels into the town of Geneseo through the scenic Nations Road area.

For youngsters, the day also features short kids “fun runs” on the track at no charge, with awards to all participants.

The community is encouraged to participate in the event by running, walking, or gathering along the course to cheer for participants as they pass. The best viewing will take place on Main Street, north of the fountain. Race organizers also remind everyone that due to the size of the event temporary road closures will take place between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 2 to ensure safety for the participants. Please plan ahead for any travel needs.

The Oak Tree Half Marathon and 5K is the kickoff event for the Geneseo Trio Run/Walk Series. The series, in its fourth year consists of the Oak Tree, Friday Knight 5K held on the SUNY Geneseo campus, and the Ramon Rocha 5K held in the Village. The Geneseo Trio is fueled by GioVanna’s Pizza and Pasta and they will be at each event rewarding participants with great fresh food.

There is still time to register for the Oak Tree online or in person. Visit www.geneseevalleyconservancy.org or call 585-243-2190 for more information.

The Oak Tree Race will also have a booth setup at the Geneseo Farmers Market on Aug. 30 from 3 until 6 p.m. where you can register in person and receive more information.