By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
The 20th Annual Gatorade/Steelers 5K Race, Fitness Walk and Kids' Kickoff Run will take place on Labor Day Weekend, Monday, September 1, at 9 a.m. at Heinz Field.
Former Steelers tight end Randy Grossman will serve as the honorary chair for the race.
The race will be part of the Steelers Kickoff Week festivities at Heinz Field, including the annual Coors Light Kickoff Rib and Music Festival.
Paul Zimmerman, who is originally from Western Pennsylvania but now lives in Austin, Texas, competed in the first race 20 years ago and has come back for the race when his schedule has permitted. In the past he has competed along with his wife Lori, and both are former race winners.
"It's always been cool because it's always finished inside of the stadium," said Paul Zimmerman. "That was different than any other race I ran. It's really neat that way."
Those thoughts are echoed by others.
"I think it's one of the most fun races I have done," said Lori Zimmerman. "It's a fast course because it is so flat. I love the way you start in front of Heinz Field and there are players on hand and the way you finish right in Heinz Field and you can see yourself up on the screen, I think that is fantastic."
The proceeds from the race benefit the Art Rooney Scholarship Fund and helps fund a $12,000 scholarship that is awarded annually to a student from each of the three North Side High Schools – Perry, Oliver and North Catholic – based on academics, need and extracurricular activities.
"What the Rooney family has meant to Pittsburgh," said Paul Zimmerman. "They put so much into this. They are huge supporters of this race. It's great that way."
To take part in the race, which will be a part of a weekend of Labor Day Weekend festivities at Heinz Field, including the annual Coors Light Kickoff Rib and Music Festival, visit Gatorade 5K . Applications are also be available by calling (412) 697-7713 or by emailing 5K@steelers.com.
*2007 Race Photos *
