Mighty Niagara Half Marathon and Hospice Dash 5K

Lockport-Niagara Hospice will hold its annual Mighty Niagara Half Marathon and Hospice Dash 5K on Oct. 5. The half-marathon starts at Artpark State Park in Lewiston, while the 5K starts at Porter-on-the-Lake Park. Both races finish at Porter-on-the-Lake Park.

Presented by Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union, the Mighty Niagara 13.1-mile run is a USATF-certified course offering scenic view of two historic villages, four state parks, the lower Niagara River, Lake Ontario, Canada and the Toronto skyline. The 3.1-mile Hospice Dash is also USATF-certified and takes runners along Lake Road and through Four Mile State Park. Many participants walk the Hospice Dash, as well.

Trophies, cash prizes, medals and pins are presented to runners for various levels of achievements. The post-race celebration includes food, beer from Brickyard Brewing Company, and live music by Soul Committee.

“This event provides not only a unique and exceptional experience for runners through our beautiful county, but it also a special opportunity to support the only hospice care provider in Niagara County,” said Allison Bolt, Niagara Hospice special event coordinator. “As runners finish their race, they find themselves surrounded not only by their friends and family cheering them on, but also with ‘in memory of’ signs of those who have passed before us. It is truly heartwarming.”

The event is rain or shine, with the Mighty Niagara Half Marathon starting at 9:15 a.m., and the Hospice Dash 5K starting at 9 a.m. For more information, or to register for the races or post-race celebration, visit www.mightyniagarahalfmarathon.com or www.hospicedash.com, or contact Bolt at 716 280-0766 or [email protected].

Since inception, over 15,000 individuals have participated. Proceeds from the event support the specialized care and services provided by the nonprofit organization.