'Let Freedom Run' road race to be held Sept. 14

Real Estate Weekly, August 21, 2002

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Governor George E. Pataki announced a 4-mile race to take place on Sept. 14 along Manhattan's West Side in honor of those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 attacks. The mayor and governor will be the honorary co-chairs of the run, which will begin at Hudson River Park's Pier 84 (44th Street) and continue down the West Side Highway to its finish in Battery Park.

Proceeds from the event will benefit The Gift of New York, a non-profit initiative dedicated to providing families of those who perished in the Sept. 11 attacks free access to many of New York's cultural, historical, artistic and sporting events. Registration for the race is $20, and participants will be selected on a first-come, first-serve basis.

"Let Freedom Run is an opportunity to commemorate the events of Sept. 11 and honor those who lost their lives," said Bloomberg. "This race is a way to demonstrate that we will never forget as well as showcase our city's resilience and strength."

"Let Freedom Run is a great way to both honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11 and demonstrate our determination to move forward," said Pataki. "This is one more small way for New Yorkers to come together to show our solidarity with the families and our common resolve to rebuild our great city."

The course, along the Hudson River, is reminiscent of the primary evacuation route used during the attacks on the World Trade Center. The West Side Highway was also the chief means of access to the World Trade Center site during the rescue and recovery efforts. In a symbolic gesture, participants will be running towards the site and into Battery Park, which will furnish a splendid view of the Statue of Liberty.

Everyone, regardless of age or running experience, is welcome to participate in this one-time-only event. Participants may walk if they wish, and people with disabilities are encouraged to join. Following the run's conclusion in Battery Park, the public will be invited to the post-run activities, which will include a ceremony, as well as music, food and beverages. Merchants from Lower Manhattan will have the opportunity to set up display areas to promote their businesses.

"This race is a way to honor and remember the victims of Sept. 11 in a non-competitive atmosphere full of solidarity and spiritual connection," said New York City Sports Commissioner Kenneth J. Podziba. "I encourage New Yorkers and our visitors to participate and witness this unique exhibition of the American spirit and to show that New York City is stronger than ever."

"The goal is to symbolically show that New Yorkers are committed to rebuilding Lower Manhattan and that the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 were unsuccessful in their attempt to interrupt the American way of life," said James A. Ortenzio, Chairman of the Hudson River Park Trust.

Let Freedom Run is presented by Modell's Sporting Goods. Other sponsors include: Nike, Silverstein Properties, Cushman & Wakefield, American Building Maintenance, Runner's World, and Equinox Fitness Clubs. The event is being organized by the Achilles Track Club, The Hudson River Park Trust, and the New York City Sports Commission.

Those wishing to register for Let Freedom Run may do so online at: www.letfreedomrun.org or by calling 212-354-0300. Applications are also available at Modell's Sporting Goods, Niketown, and Equinox Fitness Clubs.