CALLICOON — With summer rapidly approaching, it is nearly time for the summer race season to begin. One of the pillars of the summer runs, the Delaware Youth Center River Race will be celebrating their 26th year this July.

The fast, flat course offers runners a great opportunity to reach a personal record, and the scenic views offer an amazing experience for everyone that participates.  Registration is open, so now is the time to sign up and be a part of this iconic event.

With the event date on the horizon, the Delaware Youth Center (DYC) is still looking for sponsors. The deadline for sponsors is quickly approaching, so make sure not to wait if you’re interested in highlighting your business to hundreds of runners this summer.

If you’re interested in supporting the DYC but unable to make it on July 21, perhaps the Gary A. Winglovitz Virtual Race is for you! You can register online, choose a day between July 20 and August 3, and choose your course to run on your own.

Be sure to share photos of your virtual run and tag the DYC on social media. You can have your race packet mailed to you and there are even instructions for recording your time to see where you place on the results page.

“This a great community event for all ages and skill levels,” said Ann Santoro, the outgoing Race Director. “From walkers to competitive runners, from children to retirees, it’s an amazing experience for all.”

The River Race is the most important annual fundraiser for the Delaware Youth Center, and the money raised allows the non-profit community organization to provide year-round programming and events for local youth and to maintain the ball fields, courts, and facilities.

In recent years, the race has gotten close to the 500 participant mark, and they are hoping that this year will finally be the year that they break that record. A dedicated team of volunteers works tirelessly each year to make the event a success.  Want to join in and help out?  Complete a volunteer form on the website or email volunteers@delawareyouthcenter.org

On race day, during the award presentations and raffle drawings, fresh bagels donated by Grizzly Bagels are always a great way to refuel after the run.

After 17 years at the helm, Race Director Ann Santoro is stepping down, and the DYC is looking for someone to take over as the race director.

“The Board, and everyone at the Delaware Youth Center, is grateful for Ann and her time and dedication to the race over the past 17 years,” said Alex Gardner, the DYC Board Chair. “Ann left some pretty big shoes to fill, but I know our community will step up and make sure this important event continues.”

Reflecting on her role, Santoro says, “I’m proud of the work I have done to help the race grow and succeed in my years as race director, but it is definitely a group effort. The Delaware Youth Center Board, our race committee, volunteers, and our community are the reason the race is where it is today and will continue to grow and thrive for years to come.”

For anyone interested in taking over the responsibilities of the Race Director position, you can reach out to the 5k@delawareyouthcenter.com email.

You can also find additional race details and register at delawareyouthcenter.org/the-river-race.