WOVV, Ocracoke Community Radio, in conjunction with its partners, The Ocracoke School Athletic Boosters and The Ocracoke Community Park, will, once again, host the annual running event on Ocracoke, The Scallywag 5K/10K foot races and The Blackbeard Half Marathon on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 13 and 14.
All information is posted on the website www.runocracoke.com.
Runners will gather at the starting line on Highway 12 between 1718 Brewery/Plum Pointe Kitchen and Howard’s Pub for a start time of 8 a.m. on Saturday for the 5/10K and at 7 a.m. Sunday for half-marathon.
There is an after party at the finish line for the runners both days, featuring beer from 1718, snacks and music from DJ Tommy Hutcherson.
This event is the result of a huge cooperative effort involving the financial support of multiple sponsors on and off island, The National Park Service, The Hyde County Sheriff’s Department and numerous generous volunteers before, during and after the race weekend.
The race brings hundreds of runners, their families and friends to the island in the shoulder season, filling hotels, cottages, restaurants and shops with visitors.
Proceeds of the race support the hosting non-profits whose service to the community affects many.
Since the beginning of the race, it has dispersed over $200,000 to the Athletic Boosters, Community Park, Ocracoke Child Care and WOVV to support the various activities of these valuable community non-profits.
Without these funds, these organizations would certainly be limited in their scope and effectiveness, said Stephanie Ihle, WOVV office manager.
“We thank all of our sponsors, volunteers, race-committee members and the many runners who support this event with their time, energy and financial support,” she said.
The 7th Annual 5K Turkey Trot will begin at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day Thursday, Nov. 25.
Everyone is welcome to join this race that is now official and will be timed.
1718 Brewing Ocracoke along with Angie’s Gym are the sponsors of this year’s race, which begins and ends at 1718. (The starting and ending location was recently changed and this story has been updated from an earlier version.)
Sign up at http://www.angies-gym.com/5k-turkey-trot.html.
Same day signups will be available; however, T-shirts and medals will not be guaranteed for same-day sign ups.
All proceeds go directly back into the community of Ocracoke in areas where they are needed most.
