Philadelphia, PA (August 29, 2019) ̶ Philadelphia Flyers and Gritty fans alike have asked, and Flyers Charities has answered, announcing today a Gritty-themed 5K set for Sunday, October 13 beginning at 8:30 a.m. Fans are encouraged to don their best orange and furry regalia as they run from the Wells Fargo Center, travel through the Navy Yard, and finish outside of Xfinity Live!

The race, taking place just days after the Flyers home opener at the Wells Fargo Center (October 9), will feature a course with the full mascot treatment, including Gritty-styled "rest" and "water" stops, as well as on-route décor reflective of the mascot-of-honor's favorite tricks, gags, and gadgets. At the finish line, the best-dressed runners will be awarded special prizes in one-of-a-kind categories such as "best in fur".

In his namesake, Gritty himself will be leading the charge at the starting line. When asked about his participation, the mascot noted, "I will obviously win. I'll do whatever it takes. I'll spin signs around so people run the wrong way. You don't follow the rules when it's your event. You just soak in the glory when crossing through those flaming gates of victory."

Gritty's personal announcement regarding the event (he's "not a press release guy"), can be found here.

Gritty's party doesn't stop at the finish line. Fans and participants can enjoy a free Flyers Fan Fest highlighted by the Flyers Community Caravan, hockey games, and inflatables into the afternoon.

All registered participants will receive a race t-shirt, a participant medal, and more.

Registration for the race opens at 2PM today, August 29, at PhiladelphiaFlyers.com/Gritty5K. Funds raised from the Gritty 5K benefit Flyers Charities to help support a multitude of worthy non-profits across the Greater Philadelphia Region.

Since its inception, Flyers Charities has contributed more than $29 million to non-profits throughout Greater Philadelphia that provide educational and recreational resources to underserved youth, engage in important medical and healthcare research, and promote countless community investment initiatives.