Erie Freedom Challenge to Highlight 2018 Memorial Day Weekend

The Erie Sports Commission is pleased to announce the Erie Freedom Challenge will embark on its fourth year on Monday, May 28 as it hosts participants in a 15K, 5K, Team Relay Challenge and three youth runs. The course will run through parts of Millcreek and Fairview Townships. 

The race will start and finish at Walnut Creek Baptist Church on West Ridge Road. Three races are included in the event – the Freedom Challenge 15K, a 5K run/walk, a 15K Team Relay, and three youth runs, including a ½ mile run for ages 9-12, 350-yard run for ages 5-8 and a 30-yard Toddler Trot. The event will begin at 7:30 a.m.

More than 400 runners from seven states are expected to compete in the 2018 event.

The 15K course is USA Track and Field Certified, and sees a 441-foot elevation change, presenting participants with both a scenic and challenging race. The 5K course is flatter, catering to both competitive and casual runners and walkers. 

Relay teams participating in the 15K should consist of three members and may be male, female or mixed.

Proceeds from the 2018 race will benefit Operation Christmas Child and The Elijah Lodge, a ministry of Walnut Creek Baptist Church.

“We are so excited to embark on our fourth annual race as it continues to grow with the help of Erie Sports Commission,” said race director Caleb Lancaster. “A hilly 15K course provides the opportunity for competitive and distance runners to truly test their endurance. With the event being held Memorial Day weekend, we’d welcome all participants to spend the long weekend here in Erie.”

“Caleb and the team from Walnut Creek Baptist Church have done a great job hosting the 15K Freedom Challenge over the past three years,” said Ron Sertz, Executive Director of Erie Sports Commission. “The unique course provides runners with a great way to kick start their summer in Erie.”

Registration is $35 for the 15K and $22 per athlete for the 5K and Team Relay. Registration for youth races is $7 per person.

For more information and to register, please visit www.erie15k.com.

The Erie Sports Commission is committed to promoting the Erie region as a prime destination for sports and recreation. The major goals of the ESC are to attract, create, support, and host sporting and recreational events that have a positive economic impact on the region, and assist in maximizing the potential of all regional sports facilities and venues. The ESC strives to enhance the image of Erie by showcasing the community, promote wellness through healthy lifestyles, and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages.