Montour Trail-Letter

by John Hooton

You know, sometimes projects DO work out! Burgh's Pizza and Wing Pub owners, Dan, Frank and Tom Daily, with no prior experience but with lots of enthusiasm, put together a most successful 10K fundraiser for the Montour Trail on April 22, 2001.

Some 321 runners entered, 286 finished and 75 One-Mile walkers showed up on a drizzly Sunday and kicked off the event in grand style. David Hackworth won for the men in 33:53 and Sabine Kane won for the women in 43:46. Very decent times that speak to the quality of the runners and the race itself.

True to its subtitle of being for "family, friends and fun", the event did offer attractions for the serious athletes, weekend joggers and family supporters of all. Prize money, official timing, water stations, proximity to the Pittsburgh Marathon and a great race package that included logo track shorts and "Burgh Bucks" all gave the new event credibility in the race community .

From the outset in September 2000, efforts leading to the pleasures of race day came from a serious objective -- raising funds to help promote, develop and maintain the Montour Trail. The race committee, listed below, set an objective of $3,000. Then they went to work. Thirty-two sponsors made cash contributions and many more donated in-kind goods and services resulting in net proceeds of $7,000 after all expenses were met. Burgh's was able to donate $6,000 to the Trail (doubling its objective) and added $1,000 to Cecil Township for its generous support and assistance to "the cause". This outstanding windfall lets the MTC to look at the Trail maintenance equipment "wish list" in a new light. Race Director Tom Daily reflected, "being associated with great people in our hardworking race committee, our many sponsors and volunteers made Burgh's 10K Run one of the most rewarding experiences I've known." Mark your calendars now. Next year's race date is slated for April 21, 2002.

The Dailys want to thank the race committee again for their outstanding efforts and are looking forward to working with them next year. They are Jesse Forquer, John Hooton, Tim McGinley, Dennis Pfeiffer, Amy Reichman, and Bill Woodrum.