The Kiwanis Kingston Classic: Come See What It’s All About

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With the expectation of over a thousand runners from world class marathoners to kids from your neighborhood, the Kingston Classic is an event that will draw spectators from all over and shouldn’t be missed by  anyone in our own community this weekend, 4/26-27. With the exception of one year, The Classic has been run in Kingston since 1982 and with the Kiwanis Club of Kingston recently stepping up to manage the event, it looks like it will be run for a long time to come. This year, for the first time, the Kiwanis Club is collaborating with HITS Endurance of Saugerties to help manage and promote the race. HITS Endurance(an offshoot of the Horse Shows in the Sun organization) promotes several running events and triathlons nationwide. KingstonClassicMap2014

With a rejuvenated race format, an infusion of new energy to promote the event, and what looks like typical spring weather(partly cloudy and temps in the 60’s) so far, this year’s Classic will be the place to be on both Saturday and Sunday this coming weekend.

On Saturday at Dietz Stadium, runners can pick up their registration packets, attend the Fitness Expo, and listen to talks given by Meb Keflezighi, who counts being a three-time Olympian, winner of the New York marathon, four-time NCAA Champion as being only part of his life time achievements.   From 5-7pm, there will be a free Pasta Party to carb up the runners who RSVP by 4/21($10 for friends and family and all athletes who do not RSVP.  Cash only at the door.)

Sunday will have races from a “Friends and Family Mile” to a full marathon(42k or 26 mi.) so that nearly anyone can participate. The actual list of races are as follows:

  • Friends and Family Mile
  • 5k
  • 10K
  • Half marathon
  • Marathon

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There is still time to sign up for those who want to run or walk, with registrations being taken even on race day. The Fitness Expo will also be held on Sunday along with awards ceremonies for each race.

If running isn’t your thing, the Kiwanis Club can still use lots of volunteers to pitch in at aid stations, registration tables, food and beverage booths as well as at the finish line. In fact, if you can get your group or organization of 25 or more to volunteer, HITS Endurance will provide a $250 monetary gift to your organization. For more information on volunteering, click here! 

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If you want to attend just to see some of the intense competition displayed by some of these world class athletes, or to cheer on your neighbors, the start and finish lines for all of the races are at Dietz Stadium. Be advised that there will be NO PARKING at Dietz Stadium. Free parking available at Ulster Savings Bank, 180 Schwenk Drive, and Kingston Plaza, 151 Plaza Road (End of Schwenk Drive).

For more detailed information on the Kingston Classic, check out www.kiwaniskingstonclassic.com