2009 marks the 16th year that The Pit Run 10K has been held in Oneonta in memory of Ricky J. "Pit" Parisian. The race is really many different events - a sanctioned 10K race, a 5K run, a 2 mile stroll and a kid's fun run. The other important part of the day is a community celebration consisting of a picnic, music games and alot of fun!  The day is designed to celebrate Rick's life by bringing the community together for a fun, healthy afternoon of outdoor activities.

The 10K race is a United States Association of Track and Field-certified course.  The challenging course loops throughout the city of Oneonta. It includes a one-mile climb up through the State University College at Oneonta campus and a corresponding downhill passing Hartwick College.  The race is run efficiently and starts promptly. Runners can learn their times minutes after finishing. The start, finish and timing are handled by Right Time, which coordinates races nationwide.

Last year there were more than 950 registered runners.  The race attracts runners from across the state due to its ties with the New York State Police.  The goal for each year is to attract more participants, eventually building the Pit Run into one of the premier running events in New York State.

Pictures by Gerry Raymonda