At Runner's Roost, we're always looking for ways to bring the Western New York running community together. That's exactly why we're so excited to introduce the inaugural Summer Send-Off 8K.
For years, Buffalo's running calendar has been filled with fantastic 5Ks, half marathons, and marathons, but we felt there was room for something in between. We wanted to create an event that gives runners a chance to challenge themselves with a longer distance while still being approachable for runners and walkers of all experience levels.
The Summer Send-Off 8K is that race.
An 8K is a great stepping stone for runners looking to build toward a fall half marathon or marathon, while also offering experienced runners the opportunity to test their fitness on a USATF-certified course. It's long enough to be a challenge, but short enough to be fun, making it the perfect race to cap off the summer.
More than anything, we wanted this event to feel like a celebration.
The Summer Send-Off 8K isn't just about chasing a personal best. It's about spending one more summer evening with friends, enjoying the energy of the running community, and making memories before fall racing season begins.
That's why we've built this event to be much more than a race.
After you cross the finish line, the celebration continues with a post-race party featuring Coming In Hot, a high-energy band performing '90s alternative rock favorites from bands like Weezer, Green Day, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, and more. Whether you're celebrating a new PR or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it's the perfect way to close out summer.
We're also proud to host the event at Wings Flight of Hope, with a portion of every registration benefiting its incredible mission of providing free air transportation for individuals with serious medical needs and humanitarian purposes.
Participants will also receive our exclusive retro-inspired Summer Send-Off race shirt, available to the first 250 registered participants or those registered by August 10, whichever comes first. Be sure to register here!
Our hope is that the Summer Send-Off 8K becomes more than just another race on the calendar. We want it to become an annual tradition—a race that runners look forward to every August as one last opportunity to enjoy warm evenings, reconnect with friends, and celebrate another great summer of running.
We can't wait to welcome everyone to the starting line on Thursday, August 20 at 6:00 PM.
Summer isn't over yet. Let's send it off together.