Not only do charity races provide a way to give back locally, they also serve as a life event for many. Most runners come to races with an inspiring story. Even the most seasoned athlete enters the race with a personal history of challenges and triumphs. The half marathon distance of 13.1 miles takes running to a new level — endurance. For many, Saturday will mark the first time that they will ever run 13.1 miles.

The many months of training will pay off when those runners cross the finish line. According to Race Director Scarlette Tapp, “A race is more than bib numbers, race times and awards. It is the sum of all the aspirations of those who stand at the starting line. No matter how physically and mentally grueling, an endurance race gives each runner a chance to let their personal challenges fall by the wayside as the miles fade behind them.”

Important race information for residents on the course

The only part of this course that is closed to traffic is the one Columbus-bound lane on Highway 108 from Harmon Field Road to Clarence Rhodes Road at the Lynn Post Office. It will remain closed to traffic from 7 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

At 8 a.m., runners will start on Harmon Field Road and then make their way onto Highway 108, and then right onto Clarence Rhodes Road. This part of the race follows River Road and Carriage Row and back, and is open to traffic.

The Tryon Running Club respectfully requests that all who live in the area be mindful of the runners. There will be aid stations and course monitors positioned along the race route to assist runners as needed. If residents need to drive on the course, organizers request that they drive slowly and with extreme caution.

Registration is open today from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Harmon Field Cabin and again on Saturday from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 a.m. For questions concerning the race, please contact Scarlette Tapp at 864-680-1770.

– article submitted