Innovative Edge Cross Country Series Kicks Off Early in Rochester

NYLON — Innovative Edge Sports is kicking off the Cross Country Running season early through a four-event series to be held four successive Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. August 5 to 26 at Cobb’s Hill Park in Rochester.

According to a press release from the Genesee Valley Harriers Running Club (GVH), the proceeds of this and other GVH-sponsored events go toward developing GVH’s Olympic Development Program and support to promote Healthy Habits for children in the Genesee Valley.

“The series is unlike any other in the Rochester area,” said Race Director Colleen Magnussen. “First, we have an instructional program including a 50-meter Popsicle Fun Run and longer distance events for children 13 and younger. Our young runners receive not only a popsicle but also a ribbon at the conclusion of their events.”

Magnussen said that the program is an opportunity for top runners to prep for the upcoming cross country season, but has something for all ability levels to do.

“For high school and adult participants, the series serves as a great way to get ready for the upcoming Cross Country season as we provide running tips and four 5K electronically-timed Cross Country races held in the always challenging environment of Cobb’s Hill,” said Magnussen. “In short, there is something for everyone at all abilities and interest levels, whether an experienced Cross Country runner or someone new to the sport.”

The series is the first contact some participants have with the sport, and they can later develop into experienced runners.

“The Youth Development Program introduces kids to what can become a life-long pursuit of running in an instructive, friendly and fun setting,” said Coach Mike Reif of the Genesee Valley Harriers. “It’s been particularly gratifying through the nearly 20 years we’ve held the program to see kids who have started running with it who are now on high school and college Cross Country teams or beyond.”

The Youth Development Program costs $15 if registered by August 4 for all four events which includes a T-shirt. Individual races cost $5. Children 5-years old and younger are free. For high school aged and adult participants, the 5K races are open to the following age group categories: High School, Open (19-39), Master’s (40-49), Veteran’s (50-59), Super Vets (60-69) and 70+.  Innovative Edge Sports will provide merchandise awards to the top three female and male finishers in the age group categories. All four 5K races are open to all participants with each one having a specific theme. There are two registration options available.

“To make the races even more exciting, we’ve established a Grand Tour Series Award,” said Magnussen. “Participants will earn points based on their finish in up to two of the first three 5K races and individual scores in the Tour de Pain. The female and male runner with the most points will win cash and merchandise prizes. In addition, there will be merchandise prizes for the top three female and male runners in each 10-year age group.”

For more information on the Grand Tour Series Award, visit their website here. You can register for their events here.