Courtesy photo Carlene Aliferis, second from right with her children left to right, Scott, Lisa and Paul.

ALPENA – A milestone year calls for a meaningful and celebratory tribute, and MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena is proudly marking the 25th Annual Aliferis Memorial Race by officially naming the Aliferis family as this year’s honorary chairs.

The silver anniversary represents not only 25 years of community spirit and movement, but also a powerful legacy of compassion, care and connection that continues to grow stronger.

The family is led by Carlene Aliferis, wife of the late Dr. Peter Aliferis, along with their children, Paul, Lisa and Scott. The Aliferis siblings will travel from across the globe — Paul from Italy and New York; Lisa from California; and Scott from Washington, D.C.– to return to their hometown and take part in this year’s special event. Their presence underscores a lifelong bond with Alpena and a deep commitment to honoring their father’s legacy in the community he served for nearly four decades.

The Aliferis family shared the following, “Twenty-five years is a remarkable milestone, and we are honored to serve as co-chairs for this year’s race. Our father, Dr. Peter Aliferis, spent 37 years practicing medicine in Alpena, and it means so much to us to see his name attached to an event that brings the community together while supporting the Medical Center he loved. Together, with our mother Carlene (now 92), were grateful to every runner, rider, volunteer, and sponsor who shows up year after year to keep this tradition going — and to make sure people have access to great care close to home. Dad would be proud. We certainly are.”

Dr. Peter Aliferis joined the medical staff in Alpena in 1963 after earning his medical degree from the University of Michigan and went on to serve as a pathologist and laboratory director for 37 years. Through his work, he supported physicians across specialties and played a critical role in patient diagnosis and care, leaving a lasting imprint on the Medical Center and on generations of patients and caregivers throughout Northeast Michigan.

“The 25th year makes the race especially significant,” said Ann Diamond, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “It is truly an honor to welcome the Aliferis family home as this year’s honorary chairs. Their continued support and dedication to this event, and even more so to this community, reflects Dr. Aliferis’ lasting impact. Reaching this milestone is an incredible achievement, and it speaks to the strength of his legacy.”

From its humble beginnings as a small memorial organized by laboratory staff, the Aliferis Memorial Race has grown into a vibrant, high-energy community tradition that brings people together year after year. Now celebrating a quarter century, the event stands as a testament to endurance. not just of the athletes, but of a shared commitment to health, wellness and honoring a remarkable physician.

What started as a local tribute has evolved into a dynamic, multi-sport event that welcomes runners, walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities. The race day atmosphere buzzes with excitement, camaraderie and purpose, as participants gather not only to compete, but to raise funds for the Alpena Cancer Center and the Dr. Peter Aliferis Scholarship. Participation has steadily climbed over the years, with recent races drawing more than 200 participants, along with a dedicated network of volunteers and sponsors whose enthusiasm fuels the event’s success.

The race has raised more than $615,000 in support of local health cancer care initiatives since its inception– funding vital equipment, enhancing patient experiences and supporting continued advancements at MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena. It has also helped build an enduring legacy of opportunity through the Dr. Peter Aliferis Scholarship Fund. The fund supports students from Alpena, Alcona, Montmorency and Presque Isle counties pursuing careers in clinical laboratory science or medicine, helping inspire and prepare the next generation of health care providers.

The 25th Annual Aliferis Memorial Race will take place Saturday, Sept. 5, featuring events for all ages and ability levels. Participants can choose from a half marathon, 5K run/walk, a family-friendly 1-mile run/walk, an 18.5-mile bike race or 6.5-mile bike tour. Registration fees range from $20 to $35 per person, per event. Spectators are encouraged to attend to cheer on their favorite race-participant, to greet the Aliferis family or be part of the festivities.

Race headquarters and registration will be located under the tent at the corner of Chisholm Street (U.S. 23) and Johnson Street on the campus of MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena. Participants who register will receive a T-shirt and be eligible to win several prizes during the post-race awards ceremony. Individuals must be present to win.

Those interested in race registration may visit www.mymichigan.org/race. Those with additional questions may contact Diamond at (989) 356-7738 or ann.diamond@mymichigan.org.