Last Saturday morning, October 2, nearly 600 runners spread out across Davidson’s greenways and roads to participate in Davidson Lands Conservancy’s (DLC) 16th Annual Run For Green. The weather conditions were perfect, and setting the stage for strong runner performances and an enjoyable race experience.
Run for Green, which includes 5k, 10k, and half-marathon events, has become popular on the runners circuit and has grown to be one of Davidson’s largest events. Runners enjoyed popular greenways, wildlife corridors, and Davidson’s special urban forest.
Paul Freestone, DLC Board member, managed the Race and commented, “It was gratifying to see runners challenging themselves and then enjoying the community celebration on the Green. I picked up really positive feedback from the runners and walkers about the course and the overall experience. We are delighted to show off the incredible greenways and wooded neighborhoods of Davidson.”
Mayor Rusty Knox, honorary race starter, kicked off the half-marathon at precisely 7:30 am. Most runners finished the race by 10 am at the Green where they enjoyed live music, a beer garden, and sponsor information. Bartlett Tree Experts handed out tree seedlings.
The presenting sponsors of this year’s Race were MSC Industrial Supply Co., premier sponsor, Trane Technologies, and River Run Limited Partnership. Other lead sponsors included Wildcat Wellness, Lake Norman Publications, Bragg Financial Advisors, Charlotte Eye, Ear, Nose, & Throat, Cole Jenest & Stone, Dennis J. Coleman, DDS, Fifth Third Bank, Dewberry, Eaton Hemp, Lake Norman Realty, Scott Clark Auto, Taylor Morrison, Total Bond Veterinary Hospital, TSG Residential, Bartlett Tree Experts, and community partner WDAV. TDS was the event’s lead media sponsor and Davidson Provisions Company hosted runner registration.
Said Dave Cable, DLC’s executive leader, “This is a community-wide event and celebration. We are deeply grateful to the more than 125 volunteers who helped with the Race, and to our generous corporate partners.” Cable adds “many of our volunteers are extremely loyal having been involved for years, including Mary and Sterling Martin, Pam Dykstra, and Clay Furches.”
Run For Green is a critical fundraiser for local conservation and provides a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the Conservancy’s focus on land conservation, urban forestry, greenways, and wildlife habitat protection. Information about the Conservancy, this year’s Race, and Race photos can be found at www.davidsonlands.org.
