Runners race to prove they can beat the bear

Olcott — The 16th Polar Bear 5k race will take place Sunday, Feb. 26, in Olcott. This annual race will begin and end at the Olcott Volunteer Fire Department.

Organizer Jeff Tracy said that the race was created by former Niagara County Sheriff and Camp Kenan committee chairperson Tom Beilein. Tracy said Beilein wanted a way to raise money and help send kids to the YMCA Camp Kenan.

The race first began with 74 runners participating. They faced minus 35 degree wind chills. Now, depending on the weather, they average between 150 and 250 runners and walkers.

“People enjoy the race because of the scenic course, the pancake breakfast that follows the race for the runners, the family atmosphere, the fun run for kids and racing the bear,” said Tracy

One aspect that makes this race fun and unique is the polar bear.

Tracy said that there is a runner that wears a polar bear suit during the race, who the others runners try and beat. At the end of the race they will get a shirt that either says “I beat the bear” or “I can’t believe the bear beat me.”

“That aspect adds a little extra motivation to the race,” said Tracy. “There are always those that will beat the bear easily. There will be those that will lose to the bear one year, but return the following year for vengeance upon the bear. And sure there will be those that lose to the bear and are disappointed, but most go into the race with a great attitude and wear either shirt with pride.”

When the race began, there was a small partnership that was formed with the Olcott Lions Club who sponsors the Polar Bear Swim for Sight each year.

The race will kick off the Polar Bear Swim weekend, which will take place on March 4.

“It’s one of those Western New York events that signals that winter is almost over and spring is right around the corner,” said Tracy.

The race will follow a path along Lake Ontario and through Olcott. The race starts at 11 a.m. at the Olcott Volunteer Fire Company Hall, Lockport-Olcott Road.

Registration prior to the event is $15 and includes a t-shirt. People can also register the day of the event until 10:30 a.m. The cost is $18 and includes a t-shirt.

Awards will be given to the first place overall male and female, first place master’s male and female and three finishers in each age group. Age groups for male and female runners will be 14 and under then starting at 15, five year increments up to 75 and older.

A post race pancake breakfast will take place at the fire hall.

“This race could not be possible without the incredible support of the Olcott Volunteer Fire Department,” said Tracy. “They are instrumental in the success of this race year after year.”

For more information contact the Lockport YMCA at 434-8887 or visit www.lockportymca.com or www.score-this.com.