Large Teams to Get Suffolk Marathon Discount

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone announced Friday that large teams running in the Catholic Health Services second annual Suffolk Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k on Oct. 30 will receive a registration discount.

Teams that register 30 or more runners will receive a 10 percent discount at registration.

“Teams play an important role in our marathon, to encourage family, friends or colleagues to do their best,” the County Executive said. “This event, including the Freedom Fest after the race, makes for a great day for people to enjoy together.”

Net proceeds of the run benefit services for Suffolk County veterans. Last year’s race raised $160,000, which was awarded to 19 organizations delivering services to veterans.

“For the most part, running is a highly individualized sport rather than a team sport,” Mike Polansky, president of the Greater Long Island Running Club, said. “That being said, putting together teams to support this year’s Suffolk Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is especially appropriate as we team together to support the team of United States military veterans that supported our country.” GLIRC is managing the Suffolk County race.

After the race, the Freedom Festival will offer a Taste of Long Island will be held for both race participants and audience alike. The festival will feature some of Long Island’s best local food as well as award-winning wines and craft brews from the region, all accompanied by live musical performances.

Last year’s race drew 3,500 runners from 26 states and five countries. This year, the races will begin and end in the Village of Patchogue.

Steve Cuomo, president of Rolling Thunder, a team of special-needs athletes, said, “As a small 501c3, with over 100 members, this discount represents a tremendous value to Rolling Thunder and will ensure maximum participation.”

The race is designated not only as a 2018 Boston Marathon qualifier, but also as an international and national championship for the intellectually disabled. All proceeds of the event will go toward benefiting local veteran services. The race offers a special veterans category for active military and retired veterans as well as a discounted registration fee. For those that cannot participate on the day of the race but would still like to complete the race and receive runner perks, a virtual race option is being offered once again this year.

For more information on the race and registration, visit http://suffolkmarathon.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/suffolkmarathon

Information on the discount is available at registration.