Run Into Italian National Day With Nutella

The Consulate General of Italy in New York, along with Nutella Cafe and New York Road Runners have announced that they are hosting a series of events in NYC this week, the final event being Italy Run.  This run will take place on June 2nd at 8am in Central Park, on occasion of the Italian National Day.

Italy Run Organizers

Leonardo Cenci

The first event of the week is on Thursday, May 30th, which is a reception at Nutella Cafe by invite only, from 6-8pm.  Then, on Friday, May 31st, there is a kickoff reception for Italy Run by Nutella Cafe at the New York Road Runners Runcenter from 6:30-7:30pm.  

Sunday is the big day for Nutella Cafe; its race day!  The race is 5 miles long, and runs through Central Park. The fun-filled day will start off in the morning with jazz singer, Chiara Civello, who will sing both the Italian and American National Anthems.  The race, Consul member Francesco Genuardi said, “is a way to show what Italy is today and the love of Italy for NY and, I think, the love of New York towards Italy.”  At the Post-Race Festival, runners will celebrate Italian innovation and culture.

Italy lovers, members of Italian Parliament, and even RAI Italia will be at this event.  Runners can even decide to support Friends of San Patrignano, an organization that helps those suffering from alcohol and drug abuse.

Anyone who is interested, men and women alike, are welcome to join this event.  The only qualification is that runners love Italy and all things Italy! After the race, the fastest male and female runners will be awarded a special recognition award in honor of a famous Italian runner, Leonardo Cenci.  Cenci believed that sport was a way to a healthy life, and so, the Nutella Cafe honors him by presenting the special recognition in his honor.

People of all ages are welcome to run this race, even bring the little ones!  The Rising New York Road Runners at Italy Run by Nutella Cafe, will feature fitness activities and runs appropriate for children ages 2-11.

After the race, there will be a Post-Race Festival which will celebrate the companies who made this event possible, all while celebrating Italian heritage and culture!  The food will be provided by Nutella Cafe and their partners. Fun will be had by all; it’s an event that should not be missed!