A 5K run begins at 9 a.m. Saturday at Showplace. About 1,300 runners have registered, but organizers expect 1,500 to 1,800 total participants. David Holston | HPE File
The 2010 United Healthcare North Carolina Marathon is set for Saturday in High Point. The 26.2-mile race, as well as a half marathon, begins at 8 a.m. A 5K run begins at 9 a.m. All of the races begin and end at Showplace on E. Commerce Avenue.
About 1,300 runners so far have registered, but organizers expect 1,500 to 1,800 total participants. A few hundred people typically sign up during the last week before the event.
“Times are tough for everyone right now, but this race has been able to not only survive, but thrive,” said Melissa Fourrier, executive director of Foster Friends of North Carolina and race director. “Our race numbers are strong. Our title sponsor is back for year No. 3. BB&T is now our half marathon sponsor. High Point Regional Hospital doubled their level of support. BannerPharmcaps is sponsoring for their first year, and many other sponsors.
“This is extremely encouraging and demonstrates a huge level of commitment to the nature of this event, the economic impact it generates and the support it offers Foster Friends so that we can continue to serve local foster children with our programs and services.”
The race, a qualifier for the Boston Marathon, was held in the city for the first time last May. Organizers moved the date to March to accommodate runners’ wishes for cooler temperatures.
The course is the same for all three races as last year and will remain open until 3 p.m. Motorists on Saturday can expect delays and closures, especially during the morning hours, at numerous intersections as runners pass through.
“There will be times intersections are locked down for a brief period simply based on the volume of runners,” said city Transportation Director Mark McDonald. “We’re encouraging people to be aware of the route and, if they have an alternate way to reach their destination, it would probably be wise to consider that.”
In 2009, 1,981 runners participated, including 400 from a local kids’ running club that is not taking part this year.
pkimbrough@hpe.com | 888-3531
Someday High Point should have a similar BICYCLING event to promote fitness, civic pride, unity and enable people to experience the great variety of terrain,interesting neighborhoods, parks & landmarks that exist in High Point's city limits.
Such an event would likely be fun, challeging and attract good sponsorship if it became an ongoing city tradition!