12/15/2022
A top destination race and the second largest marathon in New York State, Wineglass Race Series is about more than just running. It is also about giving back to the communities in which the race runs.
The success of this year’s races results from the title sponsorship support from Guthrie (full marathon) and Wegmans (half marathon) and the nearly 2,000 volunteers responsible for everything from water stations to the finish line to course safety. Proceeds from the race are channeled back to those volunteer groups who assist with the races, with Wineglass organizers donating over $83,000 to more than 50 non-profit groups this year.
The Wineglass relies on the help of multiple law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and county and local DPW’s to ensure runner and spectator safety along the course from Bath to Corning. “The success of this event is a community effort,” said Sheila Sutton, Race Director.
This year’s 17 water stations along the route were staffed by athletic teams from Elmira College, Campbell-Savona High School, Corning-Painted Post High School, area churches, and civic groups. Donations also go to volunteer fire departments, Bath Rotary, Elmira Kiwanis, the Gaffer District, and Corning Christian Academy, to name just a few. “We are so grateful for how Wineglass pulls our greater community together and the relationships they build for all of us,” says Keila Underwood, Administrator of Corning Christian Academy. “We have also benefitted directly from their generosity to our school. The donation they gave us not only continues our mission of including everyone, serving our community, and raising leaders but helps us make ends meet. They are helping us survive and thrive!”
In addition, Wineglass offers scholarships to student-athletes from the three high schools along the marathon route (Bath-Haverling, Campbell-Savona, and Corning-Painted Post). Over the last seven years, Wineglass organizers have granted 41 scholarships totaling $39,500 to area youth. A portion of these scholarships is funded voluntarily by runners during registration to help inspire the next generation of running enthusiasts.
Since 2011 when the board adopted the donation policy, nearly $800,000 has been donated to area groups by the Wineglass organization. Chris Sharkey, president of the Wineglass Board of Directors, said, “giving back to the groups that help us achieve our mission is the best part of what we do.”
To learn more about the Wineglass Race Series, the various organizations involved, or how you can get involved volunteering, visit the website at www.wineglassmarathon.com or visit them on Facebook. Registration for the 2023 Wineglass Race Series opened on December 1, 2022. The Wineglass 8K is May 27, 2023 and Wineglass Weekend is September 29 – October 1, 2023.
