BLOWING ROCK N.C. (September 2018) – The 19th Annual Blue Ridge Conservancy 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run takes place here on Saturday, September 22. The event, formerly known as the Mayview Madness 5K, still traverses the Mayview neighborhood in Blowing Rock. The 5K run, sponsored by Stick Boy Bread Company, starts at 8:00 a.m. adjacent to the American Legion Hall and finishes in front of Bistro Roca restaurant, where post-race snacks will be provided and awards presented.  The 1-Mile Fun Run, presented by Blue Ridge Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, starts by Bistro Roca on Wonderland Trail at 9:00 a.m. Last year’s run saw 209 runners from all over the Southeast.

New this year, out-of-town supporters can sign up for a Virtual Race and run or walk the 5k wherever they want to support the Blue Ridge Conservancy. Virtual runners will receive a race t-shirt in the mail. Additionally, Up 'N Running will be providing prizes for the new team event: participants can round up two friends to form a 3-person team and compete against other teams at no extra charge.

“This year’s run is on the first day of fall. There are few better ways to welcome the season than with a nice run and a good party,” said Tracy Brown, Blowing Rock TDA Executive Director. “We look forward to this event every year, where lots of people come together for a good cause, saving the places we love.”

The Blue Ridge Conservancy 5K climbs Wonderland Trail Road and includes a steep run through the historic Mayview neighborhood, with magnificent views of the Blue Ridge along the route. The finish line is hosted at Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar, where sticky buns, coffee, and even beer await the runners! Advance registration by September 19 offers a $5 price reduction over same-day registration, which is available for both the 5K and the 1-mile Fun Run. For more information, including course map and elevation changes, visit blueridgeconservancy.org/blue-ridge-conservancy-5k. 

The 5k will have prizes donated by local businesses for the top three male and female finishers in each of ten age groups, including a separate category for master runners. Reebok running shoes will be awarded to the male and female first place finisher in each category.