End of a Tradition: Final Radnor Run to take place October 26th

Registration is open for the 48th Radnor Run, marking the conclusion of this cherished community tradition. Over nearly five decades, the run has covered 240 miles and united thousands in the community for advancing lung health.

We were joined in the PHL17 studio by Caroline Hutchinson, executive director of the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania, and Nancy Fitzgerald, a participant of the race with Team ACAC Racers, to learn more.

On Sunday, October 26th at 7:00 a.m., participants of all fitness levels are invited to take part in this year’s event with options including a 5-mile race, 1-mile Fun Run and a scenic 2-mile trail walk. With over 750 runners and walkers expected, this year celebrates a lasting legacy of community impact and commitment to those affected by lung disease.

Established in 1977 by the Radnor Township Parks & Recreation Department, the Radnor Run, in partnership with Penn Medicine, is a celebrated tradition for local runners and the community to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by lung disease. Registration is now open.

“In our final year of the Radnor Run, we take a moment to reflect and celebrate on the event’s legacy as Radnor Township has been proud to be part of the American Lung Association’s strides to improve lung health by seeing its positive impact on others. Whether it’s been warm sun or falling snow, this October tradition has given those impacted by lung disease comfort and support through community connections and support. This year, we are poised to FINISH STRONG with gratitude to the thousands of participants and sponsors of the last 48 years.”  said Tammy Cohen, Director of Parks & Recreation at Radnor Township.

This year’s event takes place at the Radnor Township Building & Grounds. In the last twenty years, the Radnor Run has raised $1,753,346 to support lung health, with a goal to raise an additional $120,000 at this year’s event to support research, advocacy and education for lung diseases, including lung cancer, COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases.

Participants can choose between completing a timed and certified 5-mile race on a challenging course through the beautiful backroads of Wayne, PA. New this year, are built-in course challenges as well as a designated “Motivation Mile” through Willows Park and the Newtown Rd. exit where volunteers will hand out water and cheer participants up the hill. The event also includes a 1-Mile Fun Run in which all finishers receive a medal, and an untimed 2-Mile Trail Walk for adults and youths of all ages on the scenic and stroller/wheelchair accessible Radnor Trail (run the 5 or 1-Mile race and join your friends and family on the Trail Walk). Registrants can also opt to participate virtually in their own neighborhoods. All registered participants are encouraged to follow the Facebook page for training tips and event updates.

“For decades, the iconic Radnor Run has brought our community together in a strong show of support for lung health. Participants aren’t just runningthey’re helping fund research, education and advocacy for the thousands in our area affected by lung disease,” said Caroline Hutchinson, Executive Director at the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania. “As we mark the final Radnor Run, we are thankful for Radnor Township, Penn Medicine, and are proud to celebrate the run’s legacy. While this event concludes, the Lung Association will continue our mission through other lung health events in the region.”

Money raised through the Radnor Run supports the mission of the American Lung Association including lung disease research. Last year, the Lung Association funded $13.6 million for 129 projects to advance today’s science to end lung disease tomorrow, including a renewal of $100,000 COVID-19 Respiratory Virus Research Award to Radnor Township resident and 2024 Radnor Run participant, Hersh Sagreiya, MD a radiologist and researcher at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Over the past twenty years the Lung Association has awarded nearly $4.24 million to local lung disease research at the Drexel University, Fox Chase Cancer Center, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Temple Lung Center, Thomas Jefferson University, University of Pennsylvania and Wistar Institute.