2026 Viking 5K-A Memorial Run for Captain Michael "Buzzy" Andersen

Sat, Jun 20, 2026, 6:00 AM EDT

Location: 21 Court Street, Cortland, NY 13045
Featured distance: 5K
Type: Run

Race feel

Run to honor Captain Michael "Buzzy" Andersen and raise awareness for firefighter health, navigating a hilly course through Cortland.

For a Cause

Great for

Military & First Responders

Join the Viking 5K, a memorial run dedicated to Captain Michael "Buzzy" Andersen, a 22-year veteran of the Cortland City Fire Department. This event honors his life and courageous fight against job-related lung cancer, while also spreading awareness about the silent health challenges firefighters face. The 5K course begins near Courthouse Park, winding through the hilly terrain of Cortland and its campus before returning to the start. It's an opportunity to remember a dedicated community servant and support an important cause.

What to expect

* A meaningful 5K run honoring Captain Michael "Buzzy" Andersen.
* The course features hills as it weaves through Cortland and the campus.
* Day-of registration is available for cash only.

Standout details

Memorial run for Captain Michael "Buzzy" Andersen
Supports firefighter cancer awareness
Hilly course through Cortland and campus
Day-of registration accepted (cash only)

Course feel

A practical read on terrain, elevation, footing, and typical conditions.

Steady Effort

Typical course trends

Typically hilly

Built from public event details. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official event page before signing up.

From the organizer

Come join us to honor and celebrate the life of Michael “Buzzy” Andersen. Captain Buzzy served 22 years at the Cortland City Fire Department and 15 years as a Fire Investigator. He fought fires as courageously as he fought stage 4 lung cancer. Captain Buzzy succumbed to his job related cancer on February 7, 2024. One of his true passions in life was being a competitive athlete. He was an avid runner and canoeist. He helped coordinate and certify many races, and initiated the Cortland Pumpkin Run. Please join us on Saturday, June 20th, while we celebrate and honor the life of Captain Michael “Buzzy” Andersen. Help spread awareness to the silent killers firefighters face everyday.

RACE START TIME : 10:00 AM

CHECK IN TIME : 9:00 AM

LOCATION: Fire Department on Court Street and through Cortland

PARKING: Street Parking is available nearby

COURSE: This race begins near Courthouse Park and weaves through the hills of Cortland and the campus to just before Pashlay then turns around and heads back towards the start line.

Day of registrations will be accepted this year! Cash only.