On Saturday, August 16, the Highlands Rotary Club hosts its thirteenth annual Twilight 5K Race at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. As the sun dips behind the pines, runners and walkers of all ages take on the gently rolling, USATF-certified course (NC16004DW), with strollers and leashed dogs welcome at the back of the pack. Registration opens at 4:00 P.M.
At 6:00 P.M. sharp, the starter’s pistol kicks off an evening built for community – and cool summer air. Every finisher of legal drinking age enjoys a complimentary beer courtesy of the Ugly Dog Pub, while youngsters under nine receive light-up toys. Packet pickup takes place Friday, August 15, from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Highlands Recreation Park, ensuring racers have time to acquaint themselves with the plateau’s trademark breezes and scenic vistas.
Following the awards ceremony – which honors overall top male and female finishers, Masters and Grand Masters divisions, and offers cash bonuses for new course or age-group records – participant and spectators settle in for a live performance by local favorite The ABC Combo. Blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers transform the park into an open-air concert venue where families and friends celebrate each runner’s achievement.
Proceeds from the Twilight 5K benefit the Highlands Community Child Development Center, the race’s long-standing charity partner. Last year’s event raised $25,000 for early-childhood programs, and organizers aim to surpass that total in this milestone year. Kids under five still run free, and children aged five to nine register for just $10; day-of registration jumps to $45, so early sign-up is encouraged.
The International’s 2024-25 theme is “Rotary is Magic.” Since its charter in 1945 – coinciding with Highlands’ sesquicentennial – the Rotary Club of Highlands has championed community projects from flood relief and playground builds to monthly bingo nights that channel winnings into local nonprofits. Under President Randy Foster, members secured grants for pre-K playground equipment at the Literacy & Learning Center and continue partnering on international service initiatives.
As the Highlands Rotary Club commemorates eight decades of “Service Above Self,” its Twilight 5K stands as both celebration and fundraiser – an evening where healthy competition meets heartfelt giving, and where runners literally cross a finish line to build a stronger community.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or cheering from the sidelines, this twilight run delivers Highlands hospitality at every mile.
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