October race roundup
The fall season brings cooler temperatures, leaves changing to beautiful golds and reds, and the chance to enjoy them all in person by participating in one of the many races and walks happening in Pittsburgh over the coming weeks. Following are a few races of note:
GAP Relay – Oct. 14-15
For a change from the usual run or walk, there is the GAP Relay, starting in Cumberland, Md., on Oct. 14 and finishing in Pittsburgh on Oct. 15. Presented by UPMC Health Plan, this 150-mile relay race along the Great Allegheny Passage to Pittsburgh says it finishes with “a party like no other.”
The GAP Relay is for both beginners and experienced runners. Elevation changes can be a bit of a challenge for some beginners, but there are two race distances to choose from, and being a relay race, teams can select their more experienced runners to take the more difficult legs.
Organizers expect more than 40 teams to take part and run through tunnels, over viaducts and bridges, all while experiencing the most beautiful fall scenery.
This event benefits the Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy, and had its initial running in October 2018.
“This is an unforgettable opportunity for adventure and camaraderie on one of the region’s most scenic trails,” said Troy Schooley, chief executive of P3R, which runs the event. “Traveling the Great Allegheny Passage is a soughtafter bucket list adventure for many, and this is a wonderful way to experience all that the trail offers.”
More information on the race and how to sign up can be found at https:// p3r.org/races/gap-relay.
Rose Run 5K – Oct. 23
The Rose Run is a 5K held at Hazelwood Green Plaza on Oct. 23. Some areas in the city and the surrounding suburbs are
sometimes forgotten when community races or walks take place. The Rose Run is described on the event website as “an effort to engage communities notoriously skipped over for health and wellness services, athletic events, fresh food options and grocery stores.”
The Rose Run will not only give the opportunity to those wanting to participate in a local race, but also allow participants to become informed about new health and wellness programs in their area.
A portion of race proceeds will go to homeless women in the Greater Pittsburgh area. More information can be found at https://runsignup.com/ Race/PA/Pittsburgh/ RoseRace2022.
Trick or Trot 5K and Fun Run – Oct. 30
More than just a run, this eventcombines fall weather, a spooky family-friendly atmosphere, costumes and food trucks, along with great music from DJ Steve Maffei Jr., all held on the day before Halloween.
It is held at the Heinz Quay Boat Launch and supports of Propel Partners in Wellness.
Registration will begin at 8 a.m. and the races start at 9. Participants should plan on spending the day, taking in the scenery and all the costumes that are sure to be on display.
“The best part of the day will be seeing the wonderful team members, families, friends and supporters at the starting line, ready to take steps, literally, to support our amazing Partners in Wellness program,” said Tina Chekan, CEO/Superintendent of Propel Schools and Propel Schools Foundation.
More information can be found at https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Pittsburgh/