Public88 : Fashion

Fashion and fitness joined forces Saturday in Cobbs Hill Park for the first Rochester’s Longest Runway 5K Run/Walk. Some runners flexed and stretched near the starting line; others accessorized.

One of several events this year to promote Rochester Fashion Week, the 5K encouraged runners to be as fashionable as they chose. A number of serious runners decided against the frills but the Rochester Speed Skating Team was not among them. Calling themselves the “Maids of Dishonor” for the day, they donned ball gowns and tiaras along with their running shoes.

“It’s not how we run; it’s how we look,” said team member Tina McKean of Scottsville.

Fashion Week organizers said they wanted the event to be an interesting and fun way to celebrate Rochester’s style and creativity.

Glamour was an added bonus.

“I’m not a runner, but I will stroll fashionably,” said Shawn Dunwoody, Fashion Week chief art director. Decked in a button-up shirt with a bow tie and loafers, he stayed true to his word.

In the future, they’d like to see people compete to be the craziest, best dressed runner on the course, said Chantiza Stern, Fashion Week chief event organizer.

“Usually on the weekends you throw on just a pair of jeans or sweatsLet’s bump it up a little bit. Let’s get dressed,” she said.

Chief Fashion Operator Meghan Mundy emphasized that athleticism wasn’t taking a backseat. The course for the 5K was the same used by police for training, she said, and certainly presented a challenge.

“I plan on running the whole thing – or attempting to,” said Misty Hartman, 25, of Greece, who attended

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