Summer isn't over yet... and neither is the excitement for the Summer Send-Off 8K!
This week, runners gathered at Runner's Roost Orchard Park for a special Summer Send-Off 8K Course Preview Run, getting an early look at the official race course while enjoying another great evening with Western New York's running community. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/OrchardPark/SummerSendOff8k
Participants had the opportunity to demo three of Saucony's newest shoes—the Triumph 24, Hurricane 26, and Paramount Max—thanks to the Saucony team. It was the perfect chance to experience the course, connect with fellow runners, and find a new favorite shoe before race day.
We're also incredibly grateful to @frnactive for sponsoring the Summer Send-Off 8K. Partnerships like these help us create events that bring people together while supporting an incredible cause.
The energy at the preview run confirmed exactly why we created this event. We've been hearing from runners that they'd love to see more races beyond the traditional 5K, and the Summer Send-Off 8K is our answer. It's the perfect distance for runners looking to challenge themselves, prepare for a fall half marathon or marathon, or simply enjoy one more memorable summer race.
But the Summer Send-Off is about more than just the miles.
After crossing the finish line, participants will be treated to a true end-of-summer celebration featuring bottomless post-race beer or wine, live music from Coming In Hot, and plenty of time to celebrate with friends. Coming In Hot will bring the soundtrack for the evening with high-energy '90s alternative rock featuring favorites from Weezer, Green Day, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, and more.
The race will also take place on a USATF-certified 8K course, making it a fantastic opportunity for runners chasing a late-summer PR or looking for a quality tune-up before fall racing season.
Even better, a portion of every registration benefits Wings Flight of Hope, helping support its mission of providing free air transportation for individuals with serious medical needs and humanitarian purposes.
Join Us for the Summer Send-Off 8K
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Race Start: 6:00 PM
Wings Flight of Hope
3964 California Road
Orchard Park, NY 14127
Registration Includes
- Official Summer Send-Off retro-inspired race shirt for the first 250 registered participants or those registered by August 10, whichever comes first
- USATF-certified 8K course
- Professional chip timing
- Post-race awards
- Bottomless post-race beer or wine
- Live music from Coming In Hot
- Support for Wings Flight of Hope
If you missed the course preview, there's still plenty of time to be part of Buffalo's newest end-of-summer tradition.
Summer isn't over yet. Join us for one last race, one last summer sunset, and one unforgettable evening with the Western New York running community.