Lockport Elks Veterans Run

Join us on Sunday, November 8, 2026, for the third edition of the Lockport Elks Veterans Run 5K, an inspiring community event held in historic Lockport, New York. This race is not just a run; it's a celebration and fundraiser for Pawsitive for WNY Heroes, which trains service dogs to assist local veterans with disabilities.
The course starts and finishes at the Lockport Elks Lodge 41 on Canal Road, now certified by USATF thanks to Jeff John from BuffaloRunners.com. You'll be greeted not just by fellow runners but also by local veterans who will cheer you across the finish line alongside their service dogs. The lodge is located at 6791 N Canal Road and offers ample free parking nearby.
Registration for this event remains open until race day, with online options available up to that point as well. Early registrants (by October 23) are guaranteed an official Pawsitive For Heroes t-shirt; extra shirts will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis after the deadline. On-site registration and packet pickup take place from 8:00am until the start of the race at 9:30am.
While dogs won't be running alongside participants due to insurance concerns, you'll still enjoy post-race festivities that include pizza, chili, hot soups, snacks like water, fruit, and yogurt. The celebration also features a cash bar and an awards ceremony recognizing top male and female finishers overall as well as in age groups: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+. New this year are "Inspiration Trophies" for the oldest male and female runners.
For those interested in sponsorship opportunities or further information, please contact Denise Grudzinski at x0x0mome@aol.com or (716) 433-2595. Sponsorships can include placing a business name on t-shirts as well as honoring or remembering veterans through the event.
Should circumstances such as severe weather prevent the race from happening, organizers reserve the right to reschedule or convert it into an online virtual run with no refunds issued.
Professional timing and finish line services will be provided by Race Management Solutions using Jaguar Electronic RFID technology. Results are updated in real time throughout the day and can be accessed via various platforms including the ITSYourRace Mobile App, RMS Race Results Kiosk/Printer, scrolling results TV monitors at the event location, or online through ITSYourRace.com and RaceManagementSolutions.com.
Participants can also download custom finisher certificates from these websites free of charge. Additionally, runners have access to view and share their race day photos with friends and family via Facebook using the ITSYourRace platform.
This year's Lockport Elks Veterans Run 5K promises an engaging morning in a supportive community setting dedicated to giving back through sport.