The Charity Chase Half Marathon in Hickory, North Carolina brings so much joy to the participants, volunteers and local charities! Here’s How -
Participants – Over the last two years runners/walkers across the country, even Canada have lots of nice things to say about the Charity Chase Half Marathon in Hickory! Often times the participants comment on how challenging the course is – especially with the rolling hills of Western North Carolina! Participants thrive on challenges! Runners/walkers also appreciate the volunteers that are cheering them along every step of the way and also appreciate the water, Gatorade and food along the way of the 13.1 mile route! Each year participants have given compliments to the Hickory Police Department for manning the intersections and making sure they are safe, the Catawba County EMS for being there for their First Aid needs, and Hickory Fire Department has also been there over the past two years because some of the funds went to the NC Jaycee Burn Center and they are also extremely helpful if a participant or volunteer needs First Aid help – as the firefighters are EMS trained as well. Charity Chase participants also comment on how well-organized the event is and how they appreciate getting a warm welcome from the volunteers who staff the registration booth, hand out awards and those who are at the Finish Line cheering folks in as they cross the finish line!
Volunteers – It takes more than 100 volunteers on race day to make the race happen. Our volunteers are crucial – from the planning stages that begin right after one race ends, to the hard core work that needs to be done 6 months prior to the race, to race day! Volunteers have great energy and help cheer the participants along the way, as well as enjoy being a part of a big community event that brings a lot of people together!
Local Charities – Over the last two years, proceeds from the half marathon, which is thousands of dollars, has been given to state and local organizations! Many of the volunteers are part of the local organizations that receive funds from this race. The money goes to good causes, and some of the organizations that have received funds help teenagers, help with life/career issues that are of great importance to the livihood of so many people, school groups, those recovering from addiction, and to burn victims.
Participating and volunteering in the Charity Chase is more than just fun … it is being a part of a win-win event that is fun for participants, volunteers and in the end, helps organizations in the area that make Hickory a great place to live!
Mandy Pitts – Charity Chase Committee Member
