Once again this year State Bank of Long Island, in conjunction with the Town of Oyster Bay, will sponsor the 5K run to be held on Oct. 16 as the kickoff event of this year's Oyster Festival. The run is set to start in Fireman's Field, Oyster Bay at exactly 9 a.m.

The run will be conducted by the Greater Long Island Running Club President Mike Polansky, who is also the race director. Technical support will be furnished by Finish Line Road Race Technicians, under the direction of Dave Katz, who will utilize his "ChampionChip" scoring technology, a faster and more efficient way of scoring the run.

This year's run has been carefully planned to make sure that it is a "fun" event for the entire family and all are urged to remain after the race and enjoy the many events connected with the famous Oyster Festival.

Commemorative T-shirts will be given to everyone who registers and all registrants will be eligible for the door prize that will take place at the awards ceremony and awards will be presented to the top 5 male and female finishers overall; the top 5 male and female finishers in each of the age categories.

The entry fee is $15 for those who preregister; $14 for residents of the Town of Oyster Bay and $18 for those who wait until the day of the race. Post registration, number and number-pickup will be at the Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School from 7 to 8:30 a.m., the morning of the run.

According to race director Polansky, "The hills around Oyster Bay are a stunning venue for an early morning run in October and we are looking for a crisp, clear autumn morning that will make it possible for everyone to have a perfect run. We are very appreciative of the Town of Oyster Bay and its Department of Recreation and Parks, the support of Town Supervisor John Venditto and State Bank of Long Island folks including Chairman of the Board Thomas Goldrick along with Vice President Mary Durkin and Senior Vice President Tom Arnone.

For entry forms or further information about the 5K run prior to the Oyster Fest in Oyster Bay, please call 349-7646.