2020 Panerathon Is Canceled Because of Virus

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Due to the uncertainty caused by the coronavirus outbreak and large-group restrictions at Mill Creek Park for the summer, Covelli Enterprises and the Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley have canceled the 2020 Panerathon.

“The health, well-being and safety of our Panerathon community was at the forefront of this decision and we are deeply saddened but understand this is the right thing to do,” said Sam Covelli, owner of Covelli Enterprises, in a statement released this morning. “We will work tirelessly to make 2021 an amazing event that the Youngstown community can experience safely.”

The event was scheduled to be held Aug. 30.

Over the past decade, Panerathon has brought more than 12,000 people downtown annually to participate in the annual race and raised $3 million for the Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley. Funds raised by the race support the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center, which provides services to all patients who need them, regardless of their ability to pay.

“Panerathon is such an important event for our entire community and the funds raised have made a tremendous impact on the health of so many women in our Valley. We are saddened that we must cancel this year because of COVID-19, but we are looking forward to seeing everyone again next year at Panerathon 2021,” said Paul Homick, president of Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.