Erie to Host Crossing the Frontier Running Event

The Erie Sports Commission is pleased to announce the Crossing the Frontier 5K/10K will be held for the first time on Saturday, June 2, starting and finishing in Frontier Park. Two races will be offered – a 5K run/walk and a 10K run, each with an opportunity to participate virtually.

All proceeds from the Crossing the Frontier 5K/10K will benefit the Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit organization providing immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to post-9/11 combat wounded, critically ill and catastrophically injured veterans of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

The Semper Fi Fund has provided more than $162 million in assistance to more than 20,000 wounded service members and their families, including those in Erie.

The event will begin at 8 a.m. with music from DJ and Army veteran Michael Wykoff. McDowell JROTC will present the colors as Roy Hollis Jr. sings the national anthem. Marines will lead participants through a warm-up before the 10K race at 9 a.m. and the 5K directly after. Three PT stations will be located along the course, with participants being encouraged by veterans of all four branches of the military and members of the Erie Bureau of Police (EPD) SWAT team.

Participants will receive a performance shirt and will be presented with a medal by a member of the military.

The Sam Adams ‘76 and 1K Beers post-race party for participants will feature Sam Adams ‘76, beverages, food, a Chinese Auction and music.

Registration for the Crossing the Frontier 5K is $25 and the 10K is $30. A $5 discount will be granted to members of the Erie Runners Club and the military, including active, reserve, veterans and ROTC.

“We are looking forward to partnering with the Erie Sports Commission to host our inaugural Crossing the Frontier charity event in Erie,” said Tammy Kay Cassa, Race Director. “The Crossing the Frontier race is a great opportunity for runners and non-runners to support veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, in Erie and across the U.S., as well as experience a new cross-country course.”

“We are excited to begin working with the Crossing the Frontier 5K and 10K event this year,” said Ron Sertz, Executive Director of the Erie Sports Commission. “Between the unique cross-country racing courses offered and the event’s deep commitment to serving our veteran community, we are certain that the event will appeal to runners from across our region and beyond. I’m looking forward to partnering with the event as it grows and evolves.”

For more information, including registration, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Erie/CrossingtheFrontier5K10K.

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.