Out of caution surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Buffalo Bills 50 Yard Finish Presented by Independent Health will now be conducted virtually. All proceeds from the run will benefit the Independent Health Foundation to support families in need by providing necessary supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. For each $20 registration, one wellness or produce bag that includes essential food and hygiene items will be donated to a local family. All runners will have the option to make an additional donation to the Independent Health Foundation upon registration to benefit the cause.
"As our Western New York community continues to exercise best practices in social distancing, the Buffalo Bills and Independent Health sought ways to engage 50 Yard Finish participants while also giving back to our community," said PSE Sr. Vice President of Business Development Dan Misko. "Through this virtual 5K format, participants will share in a day of fitness, charity, and sense of community in June. We're proud to support our partners at Independent Health and the Independent Health Foundation as they continue to encourage healthy habits for individuals and families while also helping local families that need it most."
Under the virtual format, registrants are encouraged to dress in their favorite Buffalo Bills gear and run 3.1 miles on Saturday, June 27, posting photos of their run on social media using #50YardFinish. Giveaways will be awarded for posts that catch the eye of Bills Legend Eric Wood and General Manager Brandon Beane, who will also be participating in the virtual run. The first 1,500 registrants will receive a race bib and participation medal, which will be mailed out prior to race day. Runners who have already registered for the 50 Yard Finish have the option of a full refund, a complimentary transfer of registration to the 2021 race, or a $15 refund and automatic registration into the virtual race. Pre-registered runners also have the option of donating their entire prepaid race fee to the Independent Health Foundation.
"Meeting the diverse health needs of our community requires wide-ranging partnerships, such as our strong relationship with Pegula Sports & Entertainment. Our collaboration with the Buffalo Bills on this race, the Health and Wellness Challenge and other community programs, is helping to improve the health of Western New Yorkers," said Kathy Glieco, vice president, marketing, Independent Health. "PSE's commitment to our community is inspiring and we greatly appreciate their support for the Independent Health Foundation. Proceeds from this virtual race will enable our Foundation to provide free wellness bags, containing hand sanitizer, reusable masks, soap, washcloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and other personal items, to thousands of families in need."
Registration and additional information can be found on the 50 Yard Finish run website: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/OrchardPark/BuffaloBills50YardFinish
