Capital Region Runners Test Arboretum Trails

For First Annual Landis 5K Forest Run, Sept. 1

ESPERANCE, NY (08/22/2007)(readMedia)-- Close to 100 runners from The Albany Runners Exchange are expected to test the trails at the Capital Region’s Arboretum in the early evening of Thursday, August 23 in preparation for the First Annual Arboretum 5K Cross- County Forest run, Saturday, Sept 1. The inaugural race at Landis in September is open to runners of all ages and levels of proficiency who will compete amid the spectacular views of the Schoharie countryside. Kintz Plastics, Howes Cave, NY, is primary sponsor of the Landis 5K. NBT Bank (Duanesburg, NY) will sponsor post-race consignments of water, bagels, and fresh fruit.

“We’re very excited about the race itself – and about the fact that there is high interest from such an established group as The Albany Runners Exchange, which represents region runners at every level of expertise – with a strong commitment to the sport,” says Jonathan DiCesare, Landis Trustee and 5K Coordinator.

“Whether a runner is gearing up for the season ahead or winding down from a prior race or cross-country event, the Landis course will be as perfect as the natural beauty that surrounds it,” adds Mr. DiCesare.

At the Landis 5K on Sept. 1, prizes will be award in each age group (12 and under, 13–18, 19–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50-69, 70+) in this timed event. Race start: 10 a.m. on the Meeting House lawn at Landis. Race Day Registration: 8:30 - 9:30 am. Refreshments and tee shirts will be available at the Meeting House after the race. All proceeds to benefit Landis, the Capital Region’s Arboretum.

Mr. DiCesare, an agent for Realty USA, proposed the race in concert with another Landis Trustee, Scott Trees, late last Fall. At that time, he says he turned to Fred Breglia, Heads of Operations at Landis, for detailed knowledge of the Arboretum grounds, and to Race Coordinator Matt Nark of nearby Mechanicville, a seasoned and accomplished runner for the parameters needed to set a course that would be both challenging and inviting.

The result, says Mr. DiCesare, is threefold: a course that is challenging to runners at all skill levels, an inviting walk for those less interested in running or competition, and appropriate use of the Arboretum’s spectacular 548 acres that straddle both Schoharie and Montgomery Counties.

As planned, the 5K course will encompass and traverse many notable sites at Landis – including its Pioneer and Woodland Trails, the 500-year old iconographic Great Oak, symbol of the Arboretum, the Fred Lape Memorial stone, and the beautiful Van Loveland Gardens.

Sponsorship Welcomed Individuals and business interested in supporting the Landis Arboretum First Annual 5K Cross-County Forest Run are invited to contact Mr. DiCesare through the Arboretum at (518) 231-2290. Among those items needed are donations of: water, power drinks, post race food e.g. fruit-bananas/oranges, bagels, energy bars, etc); cones and marking equipment; and monetary or in-kind donations toward prizes. All sponsors will be acknowledged at the event and in post-event publicity.

Area businesses also are invited to support the event with volunteers representing their company.

Multifaceted Jewel As the Capital region’s Arboretum, Landis is a multifaceted natural jewel. It now encompasses 548 acres of trees, shrubs, old growth forest and, of course, breath-taking vistas and memorable gardens. Long a destination of choice among Capital District gardeners, environmentalists, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, and birders, the Landis Arboretum may be one of the best-kept secrets of the northern Catskills.

The Landis Arboretum includes a nationally recognized collection of oaks and is registered with the North American Plant Collections Consortium (NAPCC). The Arboretum also is included in the New York State Route 20 Bluebird Trail, bringing even more birdwatchers to the site. The Arboretum’s vast dark sky and wide horizons attract area astronomers to its meeting house and parking field for sky-watching events

The Arboretum is central to the New York State Wine and Spa Trails and in close proximity to historic Sharon Springs . And, it is a natural stop for those traveling to the high-volume tourist attractions between the Albany, Cooperstown, and Finger Lakes Regions.

Run, Walk, Cheer for It The Landis Arboretum is located 1.5 miles off scenic-designated Route 20 in Esperance, NY, a beautiful and easy drive from throughout the Capital Region.

Interested participants, individuals and business interested in sponsoring segments of the race – and those who wish to support the event as volunteers and cheerleaders, or to view a copy of the Race Registration form can obtain more information on the Arboretum's First Annual 5K Cross County Forest Run at www.LandisArboretum.org > Special Events.

Or contact Race Director, Jonathan DiCesare, at (518) 231-2290.

First Annual Landis 5K Forest Run, Sept. 1 Check it out at http://www.mapmyrun.com/event/united-states/ny/esperance/61542703

Registration Opens: 08/01/2007 09:00:00 Registration Closes: 09/01/2007 09:30:00 Estimated Number of Participants: 150 or less