Corner Store Expands 2015 Country Run 5K Series

SAN ANTONIO — CST Brands Inc. announced dates and venues for its 2015 Corner Store Country Run series, adding two more locations this year for a lineup of 10 cities.

The new venues include Syracuse, N.Y. (Aug. 8), and Lehigh Valley, Pa. (Aug. 22) — markets where CST Brands expanded its business through the acquisition of Nice N Easy Grocery Shoppes and CrossAmerica Partners LP, respectively.

Returning venues include Montreal (June 20); Denver (July 11); Katy, Texas (July 25); Fort Worth, Texas (Sept. 26); Round Rock, Texas (Oct. 11); Little Rock, Ark. (Oct. 17); Phoenix (Oct. 24); and San Antonio (Nov. 14).  

This year's run is presented by Aquafina, with net proceeds benefiting the donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network Big Brothers Big Sisters, along with local children's charities in each market.

"Big Brothers Big Sisters is proud to have been chosen once again as a charity partner for the Corner Store Country Run," stated Pam Lorio, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. "Last year's partnership was a large success and their support continues to help generate more matches and further mentorship for children across the United States."

In 2014, the 5K series' inaugural year, the Corner Store Country Run raised a net total of $1 million for Brothers Big Sisters in the U.S. and Canada, as well as local children's charities in the eight race markets.

This year's 5K will again offer a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, but optional chip timing will be added for competitive runners, according to the announcement. Another new feature is the option for runners to help raise funds from friends and family for the race beneficiaries. Additional revenues will come from participant registrations, corporate sponsors and Corner Store customers who donate at the cash register in participating locations.

"I couldn't be prouder of the Corner Store Country Run team and all those who helped make our signature fundraising event such a success last year," said Kim Lubel, CEO and chairman of CST Brands. "This year, The Country Run will be in 10 cities with more fun, free sponsor swag and live music. You won't want to miss it!"

Each Corner Store Country Run 5K has a farm-themed course decorated with hay bales, corn stalks and giant inflatable cows and pigs. Participants dress the part in Western wear, overalls, cowboy hats and farm animal costumes. After the run, people are invited to enjoy a free country fair with food, live music, free sponsor swag and a beer garden.

All participants will receive a branded T-shirt, embroidered ball cap, backpack, bandana and blue finisher ribbon. For timed runners, prizes will be awarded to the fastest finishers in several categories.