18th German American Oktoberfest Night Run

The 18th Annual FirstLight Federal Credit Union German American Oktoberfest Night Run is set for 6 p.m. September 10th, 2011 at Fort Bliss. This run, sponsored by the German Air Force Air Defense Center, Fort Bliss MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) and the FirstLight Federal Credit Union, has established itself as one of the most recognized running events in El Paso.

Over 900 participants are expected in this year’s run, amongst them 300 to 400 walkers and 15 to 20 corporate and military teams. The event is open to all community members, not just military personnel. In the past, the event has attracted participants from as far as Washington state and Washington, D.C.

Participants may sign up for either the 8K Run (5 miles) or the 5K Fun Walk (3.1 miles). Corporate and military categories are again included in this year’s event. Military unit teams may run in the military competition, with the top five individual finishing times going toward their team’s overall time.

Pre-race activities begin at 4 p.m. and will include a variety of entertainment, along with the sale of German Bratwurst and pastries and other refreshments. The Commandant of the German Air Force Air Defense Center will welcome the participants with a brief address and officially start the event after the playing both the German and U.S. national anthems. In a short ceremony following the race, the winners in each category will receive awards presented by the German Air Force Commandant and the FirstLight Federal Credit Union president. Organizers have also arranged for a variety of post-race activities including Oktoberfest music and the sale of German food and drink.