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Calspan 5K Race returns to main runway at Niagara Falls International Airport

Thu, Jul 11th 2019 04:05 pm

Kids Fun Run added this year; run provides unique race course

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced Tuesday that the Niagara Falls International Airport, 2035 Niagara Falls Blvd., Niagara Falls, will, once again, host a unique 5K race using its main runway at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 18. 

The Calspan Run The Runway, a certified 5K race, will take place exclusively on the airport’s main 10,825-foot long runway and adjoining taxiways. Eclipse Multi-Sport, a local race management company that highlights the family experience in fitness activities, and has raised thousands of dollars for charitable partners in Western New York for over a decade, is coordinating the event. 

William R. Vanecek, the NFTA’s director of aviation said, “We are pleased to once again have Calspan as our major sponsor and host this special community event at our airport. Using the main runway as the race course gives participants a unique perspective as they will have an opportunity to be on a course that most people never have.

“Calspan is thrilled to be the title sponsor of the Calspan Runway 5K for the second year in a row. Last year the event drew hundreds of participants and we expect this year to be bigger and better. The run provides participants with a unique opportunity to run a 5K on the Niagara Falls International Airport runway. The opportunity to support this event demonstrates Calspan’s longstanding commitment to giving back to the community and aligns with our rich history in aviation research and development.” 

New this year is the addition of a Kids Fun Run for youngsters 12 years and under using a shorter modified course. Aviation enthusiast Paul Faltyn will start the race by way of a flyover using a helicopter. 

The Niagara Aerospace Museum has been designated to receive a portion of the net proceeds from the race. The museum located in the former NFIA terminal, displays a varied collection of aviation artifacts, in addition to providing extensive educational programming, focusing on the area’s role in our ration’s extensive aerospace history. 

Last year’s inaugural race attracted approximately 400 runners, who had the rare opportunity to run a 5K race on a course that provided open vistas of the airfield and terminal, while running a flat course. Last year’s winning time was 19 minutes, 23 seconds. 

Participants and guests will be screened prior to accessing the secure side of the terminal’s ramp area, just as they would prior to taking a flight. 

Registration for this year’s race is now open. Participants can sign up online at eclipsemultisport.com. Registration the day of the race opens at 8 a.m., with the 5K starting at 10 a.m. 

Free parking will be available in airport lots. Participant

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