Waterfront 5k Run & Walk

UPDATE: Our course will be the existing Marauder Trotter course that runs from Wright Park, along the Lake Erie pathway, by the pier, looping around Dunkirk Memorial Park, then back to the finish line at Wright Park.

UPDATE: Trackqua will be the official certified race timing company to process race results.

The Waterfront Foundation is excited to announce its first annual 5K fundraiser, the Waterfront 5K Run & Walk, taking place on the morning of Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Wright Park in Dunkirk, NY. This event is designed to bring the entire community together, regardless of ability, by creating opportunities for wellness, connection, and a healthier future for everyone

The 5K Run and Walk. The 5K race will be run on the existing Marauder Trotter 5k course beginning in Dunkirk Wright Park. The course continues on the walkway next to beautiful Lake Erie, past the pier, loops around Dunkirk Memorial Park, and follows the walkway back to the Wright Park finish line. The Chautauqua Striders Runner of the Year program participants get a 10% discount, however, this race does not give ROTY points at this time. The walk in support of The Waterfront Foundation will kick off at the same time and follow the same path.

There will be a live DJ and a basket raffle as part of the festivities.

Where: Dunkirk Wright Park, is located at 198 Lake Front Boulevard, Dunkirk, NY 14048. Sign-in and final registration for the 5K will begin at 8:00 a.m., with the official race beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Race and Walk Fees

Runners and Walkers - $25.00 + 2.75 fees

Baby Crawl Race - Little Watermelons. During the registration window from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., families can cheer on the community's tiniest competitors in a special Baby Crawl Race - Little Watermelons event. Official registration for the crawl will be available on the event website. We will not be able to accommodate same-day signups for the baby crawl.

Little Watermelons Fee - $5.00 + $2.75 fees

Pet Adoption and Pet Friendly. It is well documented that pets add to overall health and well-being. The Chautauqua County Humane Society and other pet-adoption facilities from around the area will be attending with adoptable pets. Additionally, furry friends are welcome to join the fun. Pets may participate in the walk/run as long as they follow all Wright Park rules and guidelines as set by the City of Dunkirk.

Community Health. Proceeds from the fundraiser will directly support The Waterfront Foundation’s ongoing mission to foster community health and wellness. The 501c3 organization accomplishes this by supporting community health through charity funds that focus on patient support, dental professionals, and nursing students. TWF also provides administrative services to The Chautauqua Center, a regional Federally Qualified Health Center located at 75 E. 3rd Street, Dunkirk. 

"We look forward to bringing the community together for this exciting first annual event," The Waterfront Foundation CEO Michael Pease stated. "It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy our beautiful Dunkirk lakefront while investing in a healthier future for Chautauqua County and the rest of our service area.”

Sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cattaraugus County Bank, Newburg Spine and Sports, and Hideaway Bay Resort. In partnership with The City of Dunkirk, The Chautauqua Striders, Trackqua and Chautauqua County Humane Society. Supported by Chautauqua Health and Fitness.

We are still looking for additional sponsors to help make this event a success. A large charitable cause like this is made possible only by the generous time donated by volunteers. To help with the race, contact fundraising@thechautauquacenter.org or call (716) 294-3995.

The official website of The Waterfront Foundation is www.twfcommunity.org. Contact the race team through email at foundation@thechautauquacenter.org or call (716) 294 - 3995.

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About The Waterfront Foundation a nonprofit 501c3

The activities of TWF are multifaceted, focusing on bridging gaps in healthcare access and resources within Chautauqua County. We engage in fundraising that supports various costs related to medical and behavioral health and wellness. Our other activities include managing community events, workforce development, administering scholarships and memorials, providing support services, and operating the Waterfront Wellness Program.