PITTSBURGH (October 2, 2021) – More than 1,200 runners and walkers raced the runway and earned their wings at this morning’s FlyBy 5K and 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk presented by CNX Resources. This family-friendly race offered participants the rare opportunity to be up close to specialized aircraft and equipment as they tested their endurance on the airfield and taxiways of Pittsburgh International Airport.
“Community partnership is incredibly important, and the FlyBy 5K is an opportunity for everyone in the region to see the airport from a different perspective,” said Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis. “This is a unique event at the airport, and we are happy to welcome runners and walkers to the airfield.”
Runners and walkers of all ages enjoyed the perfect fall weather and the course that took them past the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker from the 171st Air Refueling Wing, a C-17 Globemaster from the 911th Airlift wing and a STAT MedEvac helicopter. Andrew Zentgraf, 25, of Oakmont and Kate Kokal, 32, of Pittsburgh were the 5K race champions finishing in 17:24 and 18:24, respectively.
“This is such a special race,” said Zentgraf. “I met my girlfriend at this race two years ago. We both took first place and so I wanted to come back here today and do my best.”
“It was a blast out there. I participated in 2018 and won, but then took a hiatus as I had my son,” said Kokal. “So this is my comeback, and I had my husband and son out there supporting me as they did the 2-Mile Fun Run.”
Presented by the Allegheny County Airport Authority and P3R, the family-friendly race benefitted the Allegheny County Airport Authority Charitable Foundation. This nonprofit organization was established in 2013 to enhance the experience of military, families and others traveling through Pittsburgh International and Allegheny County Airport. Since 2016, the event has raised nearly $100,000 for the Allegheny County Airport Authority Charitable Foundation.
“Each year, we see families take on the runway together,” said Troy Schooley, P3R CEO. “And the best part about watching them cross the finish line is knowing that each participant is helping reunite a military family through the Allegheny County Airport Authority Charitable Foundation.”
For official results, click here.
About P3R
P3R is the engine behind Pittsburgh’s greatest races. We strive to inspire any and all to move with us. Best known for organizing the acclaimed annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R runs a variety of other high-quality races, events, and health and fitness programs throughout the Pittsburgh region. While many of our races attract some of the nation’s highest-profile professional athletes, we offer activities for all ages and ability levels. Anyone and everyone is invited to #RUNwithP3R! Read more at: P3R.org
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About Allegheny County Airport Authority
Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport, is committed to transforming Pittsburgh’s airports to reflect and serve the community, inspire the industry, and advance the region’s role as a world leader. Pittsburgh International Airport serves nearly 10 million passengers annually on 17 carriers.
The airport was named by Fast Company magazine as One of the Most Innovative Companies in the World as well as a finalist in its World Changing Ideas awards, both in 2020. For more information, visit www.flypittsburgh.com
