Get ready to race

ONEIDA, N.Y.>> The 18th annual Wilber-Duck Mile kicks off Friday as the dealership continues its long-standing community tradition.

Race day registration and packet pick up begins at 7:30 a.m. on Friday.

This year, the Wilber-Duck Mile will begin at 6:45 p.m. Registration and the starting point for the run and walk is at Wilber-Duck Chevrolet, 116 Broad St. in Oneida. Registration for the event is $20 per person.

As with previous years, there will be a onemile walk after the run. Registration for the walk is also $20.

Prizes of $50, $15 and $10 will be given to the top three men and the top three women to finish the race. There is a $50 prize for anyone who breaks the course record of 4 minutes, 17 seconds for men and 4 minutes, 56 seconds for women.

The race will take place in flights, beginning with women, followed by men, before closing with the walking participants.

This year, there will also be special, live entertainment.

All participants receive free food and a free T-shirt.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Fit Kids of Madison County initiative and the United Way of Greater Oneida. Participants and spectators are also encouraged to bring canned food for a Salvation Army food drive taking place at the race.

Also on the slate for the Wilber-Duck Mile is the traditional car push on Farrier Avenue, between

Main and Broad streets, where the Oneida Fire Department is set to defend its undefeated streak against cross-county chal- lengers from the Oneida Castle Fire Department.

The event is sponsored by Community Bank and the Syracuse Track Club and Fleet Feet Sports.

Applications are available at: www.syracusetrackclub.org and www. wilberduck.com.