2009 marks the 16th year that the Pit Run 10K has been held in Oneonta, NY in memory of Ricky J. "Pit" Parisian.  The race has many different events.  A sanctioned 10K race, a 5K run, a two 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 a lot 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 Timing, which coordinates races nationwide.  In 2006, there were more than 950 registered runners.  The race attracts runners from across the state due to its ties to 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.

The second part of the event is equally important.  It centers on a picnic and barbecue which follows the run.  In 2006, the two-mile walk throughout the city involved 625 people.  The children's fun run in Neahwa Park has grown every year, with over 275 participating children in 2006.  Every child gets a race number, a ribbon for completion and a gift packet.  There's music, good food, balloons, clowns, fire trucks, and much more.

The Pit Run is designed to be a day of joy, celebration, and fun for the whole Oneonta community.  We invite you to become part of this wonderful event and help it grow into an event that is considered one of the "must do's" in New York State.