(Binghamton, NY) Broome County STOP-DWI is pleased to announce that SEFCU and Broome County are returning as Premier Sponsors of the 28th Annual Chris Thater Memorial Races and Music Festival. The Chris Thater Memorial recognized as one of America's premier cycling and running events will take place August 27th - 28th at Recreation Park in Binghamton.

"I am delighted that SEFCU and Broome County will return as the premier sponsors of the Chris Thater Memorial Races," said James May, the Event Coordinator for Broome County STOP-DWI and founder of the Chris Thater Memorial. "We are grateful to SEFCU, Broome County and all of our community sponsors who support an event of this caliber that carries with it such an important message."

2011 marks the 28th year of the Chris Thater Memorial. This free community event is organized to heighten awareness about drunk driving and to promote healthy lifestyles. It is named in honor of Chris Thater, an avid cyclist who was killed by a drunk driver.

"SEFCU is honored to once again participate as a Premier Sponsor of the Chris Thater Memorial Races. We’re proud to be part of an event that brings awareness to the dangers of drunk driving. We salute the athletes and congratulate all involved for their hard work in making these races an annual success," said Michael J. Castellana, SEFCU President and CEO.

Broome County Executive Patrick Brennan said, "Broome County is pleased to be a Premier Sponsor of the 2011 Chris Thater Memorial Races. This world class cycling and running event has an important message serves to educate people about the dangers of drinking and driving while providing a high caliber sporting event along with a weekend of positive family oriented activities."

The Chris Thater Memorial will be held on Saturday, August 27th from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, August 28th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Recreation Park in Binghamton, NY. The 2011 Chris Thater Memorial will include running and cycling competition for all ages and abilities, a large expo/vendor display area with a food concession by Lupo’s and a music festival.

2011 Gold Medal Sponsors: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Blue Chip Softball, Press & Sun-Bulletin, City of Binghamton, Time Warner Cable, Macy’s, CSEA Broome County Local 804, The Whale 99.1/WILD 104, WBNG-TV and Binghamton’s CW.

2011 Silver Medal Sponsors: Binghamton Riverwalk Hotel and Conference Center, Binghamton Mets, Broome County Parks & Recreation, Laing Industries, ShortLine/Coach USA, NBT Bank, US Air Force, M & T Bank, Curcio Printing, Van Zandbergen Photography, United Health Services, Subway Restaurants, Newman Development, Dunkin’ Donuts and NYSEG.