Chris Thater Memorial Cycling and 5K Races Return to Binghamton This Weekend

If you've been dragging your feet contemplating whether or not to participate in the cycling and 5K events for the 31st Annual Chris Thater Memorial Races being held this weekend in Downtown Binghamton, time is running out to sign up.

The Chris Thater Memorial Races are a Binghamton tradition held in honor of Chris Thater, a 23 year-old cycling enthusiast and Binghamton University graduate who was killed by a drunk driver in Broome County in 1983.

An event for the whole family, there will be a free Kids Run following the 5K at 6pm on the 23rd, and not only will the race raise the awareness participants and onlookers in regards to the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the dangers of impaired driving, but it also looks to expose everyone to the many unique businesses located downtown during the “Restaurant Week Preview.”

A restaurant tour in the disguise of exercise? Sign us up!

This event is expected to attract more than 1,000 athletes and up to 5,000 spectators to downtown Binghamton over the weekend, so be sure to register now and take advantage of the free parking available downtown that weekend.

If you're interested in registration (we hope so!) check out the registration page and schedule of events.

Take note that the 2014 Chris Thater Memorial Races will be held on a new course in the center of downtown Binghamton rather than its previous location at Recreation Park in the City of Binghamton. The start and finish line for both running races will be located on the Court Street Bridge near RiverRead Books and race day registration and packet pickup will be located at the DoubleTree hotel.

Whether it’s your first race, second race, or maybe you’ve completely lost count, this Binghamton favorite is worth lacing up your sneakers on a sunny summer afternoon. Don’t miss a minute of the excitement of a weekend guaranteed to leave you smelling of sweat and success!