Elmira College Athletes Volunteer at 34th Annual Wineglass Marathon
Elmira, NY -- Over the years, Elmira College athletes have had a big presence at the local Wineglass Marathon in neighboring Corning, NY. This year was no different, as members of the Elmira College baseball, field hockey, and women's tennis teams all volunteered their time and efforts at this year's race.
The Soaring Eagles were set up at three different locations throughout the course at this year's event, which is in its 34th year of existence. At those locations, EC athletes passed out waters and other refreshing/rehydrating goods to local runners.
"We chose to sign up our team for this event because it was an opportunity? for our players to see the preparation and dedication it takes to achieve the goal of completing a half or full marathon," stated Head Baseball Coach
Corey Paluga. "Most people do not choose to run a lengthy race without weeks of training. It is a level of commitment that many will not understand. Whether the participants were male, female, young, old, there is a common goal and a strong sense of camaraderie in the running community."
"For us it was really important to be seen by so many who run, both those who are from the area and those who came from abroad," said Head Tennis Coach
Tom Linhart. "I think our athletes really saw drive and determination in so many different forms throughout the race, whether it was the leaders who run like the wind, those running their first marathon ever, or those doing it for a cause or with family. It was all truly inspiring and I think teaches our athletes a great lesson on drive and will, which is invaluable to us moving forward as student-athletes and people in general."
About the Wineglass Marathon
Since its inception in 1982, the Wineglass Marathon has grown from a small local race with 250 runners to one of the country's top destination marathons in 2015. During the early years, race organizers experimented with various routes for logistical and safety reasons. One of the first courses stretched from Taylor Winery in Hammondsport to Painted Post before the Wineglass course changed to start in Bath and end in Corning. In 1986, race organizers received a letter from the U.S. Olympic Committee requesting that the 1986 Wineglass Marathon be used as an Olympic trial for women aspiring to the Women's Marathon at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, Korea. As the Wineglass Marathon grew in popularity, so did registrations. After being voted the "Speediest" marathon by Runner's World in 2010, registrations doubled. Today, the Wineglass Marathon serves as a popular Boston Qualifier for many runners.