25th Anniversary Running of the BRC 5K in Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock, NC - It was a crisp, clear, picture-perfect morning on Saturday, September 20 for the 25th anniversary Blue Ridge Conservancy 5K and Kids Fun Run through the Mayview neighborhood of Blowing Rock, and there was record-breaking attendance and participation at the event, with 378 runners and over 40 volunteers. Sponsored annually by Stick Boy Bread Company and other local businesses, the race features Stick Boy baked goods at the end of the race, and gift certificates for winners.
“We’re proud to sponsor a race that aligns with our values and those of the BRC, reflecting a shared passion for preserving the High Country,” says Abby Willis, one of the owners of Stick Boy Bread Company, and a BRC Board Member. “What better way to showcase that than a course surrounded by beautiful scenery?”
It is a challenging course, beginning in downtown Blowing Rock and climbing up Wonderland Trail Road and through the historic Mayview neighborhood (the race was previously known as the Mayview Madness). Runners are treated to magnificent views of the mountains before starting back downhill by the Broyhill Equestrian Preserve and looping back to the finish line at Bistro Roca. The overall winner was Paul Loeser with a time of 16:01, and the top female finisher was Annie Richards at 18:27.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” says Hank Brown, owner of the timing and sport management company We Run Events. “Blue Ridge Conservancy does a tremendous job organizing the event, and we love coming to Blowing Rock, not only for the beauty of the mountains, but the great atmosphere of the entire area. We look forward to this race every year.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere this year were over 30 members of the Watauga High School Cross Country and Track & Field teams who volunteered, cheering on runners along the course, passing out water to finishers, and accompanying younger participants on the Kids Fun Run. The Fun Run, sponsored by Blue Ridge Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, is a chance for younger athletes to get involved with a 1-mile run down Laurel Lane and a loop around Davant Field.
“This was the best race yet, and it could not have happened without our sponsors, volunteers, and staff,” says BRC Communications Director Leila Jackson. “Thanks to everyone who came out early to make sure everything went smoothly, and a special thanks to the Blowing Rock police department and Watauga EMS for quickly assisting a runner in distress on the course who was being helped by fellow participants. That is the kind of community that makes this such a positive event.”
The race is an annual fundraiser for BRC, to support the protection of land in the High Country with agricultural, cultural, recreational, ecologic, and scenic value. It also serves as a highly anticipated local event that brings together folks from all over the high country to celebrate the beauty and community spirit of the area.
BRC Executive Director David Ray noted the energy and enthusiasm of the participants, volunteers, and supporters: “What an energizing kickoff to the High Country’s Fall season! The spirit I saw in everyone there is what has made the 5K a fixture for a quarter of a century, and it’s the same spirit that enables Blue Ridge Conservancy to promise that we are “Saving the Places You Love” forever. Our communities’ vision, participation, and support will be what preserves our invigorating quality of life, for this and future generations.”
Monetary supporters of the 5K include Stick Boy Bread Co., Blue Ridge Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Ashemont Title, Mayview Park Home Owners Association, Moltox, Hemlock Inn, FA Fitness Studio, McGuire Woods, and Rosemyr. Prizes, t-shirts, and swag bag materials were provided by Mast General Store, Brooks Running, M-Prints, Appalachian Ski Mountain, Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness, Bald Guy Brew, and Bistro Roca. The post-race party at Bistro Roca was supported by Stick Boy Bread Co, Booneshine Brewing Co., Bald Guy Brew, Simple WTR, Be Natural Market, Elevate Chiropractic & Performance, and Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church’s Creation Care Committee, and Hellbender Fitness.
Thanks to race photographers Charlie Stumb and Ben Coillot, and to race announcer David Jackson.
