'The Biggest Loser' RunWalk returns to Buffalo

Race to benefit local Shoes on Students program

Thousands of runners and walkers will lace up their shoes on Sunday, Sept. 6, for "The Biggest Loser" RunWalk Buffalo Half-Marathon/5K.

Among the names expected to be at the finish line are former contestants on "The Biggest Loser" Dan and Jackie Evans, JJ O'Malley, Andrea Wilamowski, Cate Laughlan and Pam Geil.

As an added bonus, a portion of proceeds from this race will be donated to the "Shoes on Students" program, providing shoes to underprivileged young athletes. Since the program started seven years ago, it has donated more than 3,000 pairs of shoes to Buffalo public schools.

Registration includes an exclusive "The Biggest Loser" running shirt, chip-timed bib, finisher's medal, free race photos and a drawstring goodie bag. Additionally, all registered runners and walkers will receive a chance to win a one-week stay at "The Biggest Loser" Resort Niagara.

The half-marathon and 5K courses start and finish at Canalside. After the race, participants, family and friends can celebrate and relax at the post-race concert featuring former contestant on "The Biggest Loser" and Nashville recording artist Dan Evans, and keep moving with workout demos by "The Biggest Loser" Resort Niagara.

On Saturday, Sept. 5, participants and the community can get inspired at the health and wellness meet-and-greet from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. In addition to packet pick-up, there will be race tips, meet-and-greets, entertainment and exhibitors/vendors. Lectures will include: food and fitness, the first-time runner and "The Biggest Loser" Q&A.

Schedule of events*:

• 11 a.m.: Expo opens
• Noon: Pam Geil, Season 14
• 1 p.m.: "The Biggest Loser" Resort Niagara
• 2 p.m.: JJ O'Malley, Season 16
• 2:30 p.m.: Andrea Wilamowski, Season 16
• 3 p.m.: Dan Evans, Season 5
• 4 p.m.: Expo ends
• *Times and speakers are tentative

Dan and Jackie Evans, founders of "The Biggest Loser" RunWalk and season 5 contestants, offer the RunWalk in a non-intimidating environment with a longer time limit to allow runners and walkers to complete the race at their own pace.

Calling all volunteers: "The Biggest Loser" RunWalk is looking for energetic volunteers to help make this event a success. Each volunteer will receive a "The Biggest Loser" RunWalk volunteer T-shirt, VIP access, eligibility for a future race entry and an unforgettable experience.

Shifts needed from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and from 5 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sundays. Individuals and groups are welcome

For more information, visit www.biggestloserrunwalk.com.

"The Biggest Loser" is licensed by Universal Partnerships & Licensing in association with Endemol Shine North America, the producers of "The Biggest Loser."