The Stringendo Fiddler’s Bridge 5k was the second race in the 2024 Onteora Runners Club (ORC) Grand Prix. The Grand Prix encompasses 10 races from April through November, with distances from one mile to a half marathon. The series was designed to test a runner’s versatility and provide newer runners with experience across various distances, settings, and surfaces.
By participating in the Grand Prix, a runner will experience races on roads, trails, and even the track. The ORC Grand Prix has existed for more than 30 years. The Onteora Runners Club organizes four events: The Woodstock 15k, the Bernie Stahl Mile, the Ashokan Rail Trail 8 Miler, and the Barry Hopkins Memorial Run at Olana.
The remaining six races are selected from area events by various community organizations. The chief selection criteria are that the events are well-organized, have affordable entry fees, and raise money for not-for-profit organizations. These criteria limit the number of events that can be considered.
Last year, the Fiddler’s Bridge 5K was a unique addition to the ORC Grand Prix. Despite being a new race, it met all the criteria to be a Grand Prix race. What set it apart was that it raised funds for a youth music program, with the youngsters playing their music throughout the course and at the pre-and post-race festivities.
This race was an opportunity not to be missed. Discussions with the race organizers convinced the ORC board of directors that this would be a well-organized and fun eve.
