It’s no secret that NYC pizza is one of the city’s favorite food groups, and on Sept. 22, New Yorkers will get the chance to eat a slice in every borough when the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge returns.
“Now in its third year, the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge brings together the world’s most die-hard pizza and urban enthusiasts for a challenge like no other,” event organizers wrote on its website.
But the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge isn’t just another reason to stuff your face with NYC pizza, it’s actually for a good cause because proceeds benefit Transportation Alternatives.
As the organization advocates for better streets for bicycling, walking and public transit for all New Yorkers, participants in the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge will use buses, trains, ferries, bikes and their own two feet to race to be the first to the finish line.
“Driving or hailing a taxi, Uber, Lyft, Via or any other for-hire vehicle are forbidden,” organizers said.
How the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge works
Registration for the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge is $30 and includes a T-shirt and finisher medal. Participants pay for their own pizza and transportation.
On Saturday, Sept. 22, participants will meet at the Red Cube at 140 Broadway in the Financial District to receive the list of the five designated pizzerias in each borough.
They’ll map out their course and race to each location in whatever order they want, eat a slice, Instagram it using #5boropizzachallenge and cross the finish line at the after party location, which will be announced at a later date.
The first person or team to cross the finish line after eating the five slices of NYC pizza will be named the 2018 5 Boro Pizza Challenge Champion. But don’t worry, every participant gets a medal and a chance to win other prizes.
Joe Cutrufo and Shannon Moriarty started the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge in 2013 as a way to explore the city, and they opened it to the public in 2016 as a fundraiser.
For more info and to register, visit the 5boropizzachallenge.org.
