Come Out And Gallop For A Great Cause
It’s time to mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Gallop 4 The Greenways on May 9th, 2009. The event is organized by Valley Forward to support our growing network of pedestrian and bike friendly trails. Net proceeds from the event go to Pathfinders for Greenways, to maintain existing trails and build new greenways throughout the Roanoke Valley. Since 1997, Pathfinders members have volunteered up to 5000 hours annually for greenway related projects.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, and the more than 1100 runners and walkers who have taken part, the Gallop has raised $70,000.00 in it’s first two years. We’ve added some new fundraising initiatives this year, and we’re hoping to make the 3rd annual Gallop our most successful event yet.
We’ve got something for everyone this year, including a 5K Race, a 1 Mile Family Walk along the greenway, and a Fun Run for kids aged 6 to 14. After the race we will have a party in Elmwood Park featuring live music, activities for the kids, and plenty of great food. The race begins at 5:00 PM and the party lasts until 8:00.
Gallop 4 The Greenways couldn’t happen without the small army of volunteers who make it possible. We depend on volunteers for everything from event planning to final cleanup. Whether your talent lies in marketing and promotion, or handing out water to passing runners, we need your help to make the event a success. All volunteers receive a great Gallop t-shirt, entry into the party, and the satisfaction of supporting a worthy cause. It’s a fantastic way to get involved with your community and meet some new friends in the process. If you’re Interested in helping out, please register as a volunteer on our website.
We are particularly grateful for the support of the corporate sponsors whose generosity made the 2008 Gallop 4 The Greenways a huge success. Nearly 50 local companies participated, donating cash and services valued at more than $75,000.00. If your company missed out on the chance to support the greenways in 2008, prime sponsorship opportunities are currently available for the 2009 event. Sign up early to gain the maximum exposure for your business, and to demonstrate your support for one of the most vital recreational assets in the Roanoke Valley. For more information on becoming an event sponsor, please visit our website or contact Scott Leffel at 540-819-2149.
The growing popularity of this event has made us victims of our own success. Registration for the 5K race will be limited this year to the first 750 runners to sign up. Online registration is available now at Gallop4TheGreenways.com. We look forward to seeing you at the race.