The Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA Hosts Annual Independence Day Race
In 1984, to honor the celebration of our nation’s Independence Day, the Wilkes-Barre YMCA staged its first 3-mile run. That inaugural run attracted 288 runners. Since that time the event has grown to host 700+ runners annually.
In 1994 after the passing of Bernie’s Hargadon, the founder of the race and the Executive Director of the Y, the race was renamed, “Bernie’s Memorial 3-Mile Run/Walk.” In its 40+ plus years of existence, “Bernie’s Memorial Run/Walk” has been a tremendous event for thousands of participants. It serves as an event for friends and family to participate in together. It brings activity and vitality to Wilkes-Barre’s Downtown and it is a great way to start the celebration on July 4th!
The course starts at the intersection of West Market Street and South Franklin Street. It runs along the River Commons and past the historic houses on Wilkes University’s Campus. It winds through South Wilkes-Barre and comes back into the Downtown area. The race ends on South Main Street and flows directly into a post-race celebration on Public Square. The entire course is flat, which helps both the novice and serious runner.
Race Day Info:
- Run/Walk Start Time: Tuesday, July 4th – 8:30am
- Run/Walk Start Location: W Market St & South Franklin St
- Free Kids Fun Run Start Time: Tuesday, July 4th – 9:15am. Open to ages 2-10
- Kids Fun Run Start Location: Intersection of South Main & Ross Street (Register at the YMCA)
- Packet Pickup – T-shirts & bibs can be picked up July 1, 2 & 3rd at the Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA Front Desk. Friends and family can pick up other participants’ packets. All packets will be signed for and are no longer the responsibility of the YMCA once picked up. Please be sure to protect your bib and do not fold it.
- Attention: Pets are NOT Allowed on race Course!
Race Registration Info:
- Register for the Annual Bernie’s Memorial Run/Walk here.
- Register before 6/20/24 @ midnight and receive a Commemorative Race Tee
- $30.50 – Registration 6/1/24 – 6/30/24
- $35.50 – Day of Race. Prices include processing & timing fees. – Same day registration opens at 7:30am on Public Square.
