The Move of the Chris Thater Races Discussed on Southern Tier Close Up

Speaking on the March 8 edition of the local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up, Broome County Stop DWI coordinator Chris Marion and Binghamton Mayor Rich David provide more details about the move of the popular Chris Thater Memorial bicycle and foot races from the area of Recreation Park on Binghamton's west side to downtown this year.

Marion says one of the primary reasons for the move is to have the event in an area that is frequented more by 20-30 year olds, the main group Broome Stop DWI wants to target for the message of the dangers of impaired driving.

Mayor David said he came on board in favor of the move after the concerns he had, mainly concerning logistics, costs and safety, were addressed.

The men also helped dispel some misconceptions that some people had been talking about concerning the reasons behind the shift in the venue location.

The 31st annual Chris Thater races, held to honor a SUNY Binghamton student and avid cyclist, who was killed by a drunk driver, will be held August 23 and 24.

More information about the Broome County Stop DWI program can be found at www.bcstopdwi.com.

Southern Tier Close Up airs at 12:10 p.m. Saturdays on News Radio 1290 WNBF.