The Sitrin Riggie Run & Walk is an annual race held at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica, starting from 100 Seymour Road. It features a 5K run, a 5K wheelchair race, a 2-mile walk, and a free 1-mile kids run, accommodating runners, wheelchair athletes, walkers, families, and first-timers. The event supports Sitrin’s Military Program, providing care to post-9/11 veterans and service members managing conditions such as post-traumatic stress, suicidal thoughts, traumatic brain injuries, depression, and other combat-related issues.
The Riggie Challenge is a unique aspect of the day: 5K runners can opt to eat a bowl of chicken riggies at the halfway mark before completing the race. Following the run and walk, Riggiefest offers chicken riggies from local restaurants, with complimentary entry for race participants. This event originated from Sitrin’s ongoing fundraising for its Military Program. It also partners with the Utica Roadrunners Skeleton Run, forming a two-race series that offers discounts and additional merchandise for those registering for both.