Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer — and the start of a new racing season in Queens.
Forest Park Runners (FPR) will welcome runners to hit the trails at the FPR Classic 4 Mile Road and Trail Race in Forest Park, the third largest park in the borough, on Sunday, May 25 at 10 a.m.
The Forest Hills trail race has become a staple of the local running scene, known for its challenging elevation changes that test even seasoned athletes. As FPR marks its 44th anniversary, the Woodhaven-based club continues to champion health and fitness while inspiring community members to embrace the natural beauty of New York City’s urban parks.
Jack Berger, the secretary of FPR, affirmed the club’s mission as a non-profit organization that fosters community engagement through the lens of trail running. “We are a non-profit with a mission to encourage running and fitness in the local community,” Berger shared. “This event and our summer series of [one mile] no-frills races are in line with that goal. Our volunteers enjoy giving back to the community in these events.”
Additionally, Berger and the FPR team highlighted the joy of movement in the outdoors, which improves one’s overall well-being. “Trail running allows our runners to appreciate nature more in their running experience and also adds to their fitness dealing with varying conditions,” Berger explained.
The trail classic starts and ends at the Forest Park track within Victory Field. Once runners dash past the starting line, expect to run around the track for nearly a lap before descending into the closed road. The rest of the course will include trails and pavement surrounding the green oasis. Water stations will also be available in certain sections of the course to hydrate runners. In the last mile, participants will return to the track for one final push before ending their journey.
This four-mile race is a scored event clutched with post-race recovery essentials, including bagels, bananas, apples and Gatorade. After crossing the finish line, cardio enthusiasts are also welcome to draw their names in raffles and inquire about team discounts. Raffle winners are expected to be present at the time of the drawing.
One of this year’s race sponsors is SaltStick Electrolytes, a nutrition brand known for its electrolyte-replenishing products designed to support endurance athletes. All registered participants will receive a custom tech t-shirt and a leaf-shaped finisher medal, a nod to the iconic logo of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
A standout feature of this trail classic is the opportunity for top finishers to take home cash prizes. The top three overall male and female runners will be awarded prize money, adding a competitive edge to the race. The breakdown is as follows: $100 for first place, $75 for second and $50 for third. Runners must finish on the podium in their respective category to claim their prize.
Trophies will be awarded to overall winners and top finishers in each age group, with some varying in height based on placement to recognize individual achievement.
Berger reflected on the continued success of Forest Park’s premier trail race, feeling pleased with its growing support from runners and non-runners. “We are proud of providing a quality race and promoting it,” “Berger shared. “We feel the growth goes hand in hand with the quality of the event. We feel its growth is positive for fitness in the community.”
As of press time, 346 runners have registered for the upcoming four-mile Trail Classic, with participation capped at 500 entrants to ensure a safe and comfortable experience on the course. Organizers anticipate the race will reach or come close to maximum capacity.
To register for the FPR Classic 4 Mile Road and Trail Race, the fee is $40 until Saturday, May 24 at 5 p.m. after which, the online registration will increase to $50.
