The second annual Queens Grand Prix Running Series gets underway later this month. Last year this series of five races was a complete success, drawing some top-name runners from the borough, as well as children, teenagers and senior citizens.
The five running clubs in Queens have once again joined forces to launch the series and to make running enjoyable for all. They are the Alley Pond Striders, Forest Park Road Runners, Quantum Feet Road Runners, Hellgate Road Runners and College Point Road Runners Track Club.
Each of the clubs stages its own race.
It kicks off April 25 with the Alley Pond 5-mile challenge followed May 16 by the Forest Park 4-mile run. Next up is Quantum Feet’s 3.1-mile race in Fresh Meadows June 13 and then Hellgate’s 5K in Astoria June 19. Last is the Gabe Vitale 5K hosted by the College Point Road Runners Club July 10.
All the races start in the morning.
Any runner may enter regardless of his or her residence, club affiliation or age. Entrants must complete at least four out of the five races to receive the Queens Grand Prix Series embroidered patch. Entrants participating in all five races are eligible to enter a raffle.
Prizes include merchandise and gift certificates
The idea is not so much to win but to finish. An individual must be in shape with proper training to complete the required distance.
“We anticipate some 1,000 entrants combined,” said Dominic Ortiz, Grand Prix Series and Quantum Feet 5K director. “The runners are gearing up for it and are once again looking forward to the series. And we have a new Web site for the Grand Prix — www.queensgrandprix.org.”
Volunteers are also recognized in the series. The effort and hard work by the volunteers will be counted toward the race tally.
For further information, call Dominic Ortiz at 718-454-3338.
