Kilted Mile tradition to kick off 2016 homecoming parade

For the last 22 years, a crisp autumn morning has signaled the start of the Kilted Mile foot race along the Edinboro University Homecoming parade route. About 120 race participants—about half wearing kilts—run one rapid mile in efforts to win.

This event, which originated with the 1993 Highland Games and Scottish Festival “is an event for all ability levels,” said Dave Niemira, the race director. “We give an award to the most lavish outfit, along with the first male and female finisher,” continued Niemira, who also serves as the treasurer of the Edinboro Alumni Association.

Racers of any age can join this year’s festivities. The 23rd Kilted Mile will kick off at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday Oct. 8 and run ahead of the homecoming parade. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. at the corner of Darrow Lane and Perry Road.

If a runner expects to have a chance at crossing the finish line first, he or she should be sure to be wearing a kilt. The prize money is doubled to $100 if the winner is clad in tartan.

With the theme “Level Up,” the weekend of Oct. 6-8 will be inspired by classic arcade games.

“Past participants have really enjoyed how enthusiastic the spectators are that line the streets of the race,” said Niemira. 

Hannah McDonald is the Copy Editor for The Spectator. She can be reached at edinboro.spectator@gmail.com.