UB Media Advisory: Linda Yalem Safety Run celebrates 25 years

BUFFALO, N.Y. – More than 1,200 walkers and runners and more than 600 volunteers are expected to participate in the University at Buffalo’s 25th annual Linda Yalem Safety Run.

The event was created in the memory of UB student Linda Yalem, who was tragically murdered while running on the Amherst bike path.

The race is set to begin at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, on the UB North Campus. Post-race events will include food, entertainment and a kids’ dash.

A 5K USA Track and Field-certified course, the run remains one of the most popular races in Western New York.

Prizes will be awarded to the overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three male and female finishers in 15 five-year age categories. There also will be prizes for a wheelchair category. Separate prizes will be awarded for UB finishers in three categories: faculty and staff, students and alumni.

“UB runs every year, not just because it’s become a tradition, but because we care,” says Dennis Black, one of three race founders and vice president for University Life and Services. “We care about each other and about safety for all.”

The race’s registration fees support rape-prevention programming and personal safety awareness at UB. Some of the programs include the University Police Aide Escort Program, women’s safety and sexual assault prevention programs, and counseling groups.

The fee to participate is $25 for the general public and $20 for UB students. For $35, registrants also receive up to four UB Football tickets to the homecoming game on Saturday, Sept. 27.

The Linda Yalem Safety Run began as a joint effort between UB Athletics and Student Affairs. This year, the race is sponsored by University Life and Services, the University Bookstore, Campus Dining and Shops and iDesign Ideas.

For more information or to register online, visit lindayalemrun.buffalo.edu.