The Lowcountry’s largest family-friendly running Festival returns to Habersham
The Annual Beaufort Twilight Run and Oyster Roast (BTR) is back on Saturday, March 23 and will attract more than 2000 participants and spectators from around the Lowcountry and several states – making it the largest 8K/5K Run and family-friendly running festival in the region. The post-race evening is capped off with live music and a traditional Lowcountry Oyster Roast with a great menu for both adults and kids.“This is one race I look forward to every year, as we do plenty of races in Savannah; this is a trip I enjoy taking back to my old stomping grounds,” said Robert Espinoza of Fleet Feet Savannah. “The Beaufort Twilight Run and Habersham are two gems to enjoy and the opportunity to run through Habersham and then enjoy the amazing after party is a Lowcountry must for every runner and fitness enthusiast. “
This year’s BTR takes place from 4:30-10:30 p.m. and is presented by Habersham Properties at the Habersham Marketplace (11 Market, Beaufort). This USATF sanctioned running festival has a competitive 8K Run (sponsored by WaterMark Coastal Homes), a competitive 5K Run, a 5K Fun Walk and a 1/4 mile Kid’s Fun Run (sponsored by Beaufort Pediatrics).
To celebrate the event’s 5th anniversary, the BTR is introducing The Beaufort Challenge – run the 5K and 8K back to back and the lowest combined times win cash awards. Winners of the 8K will also receive cash awards – including the top three male and female overall, masters overall, active duty military and hometown hero (Beaufort County resident).
On Friday, March 22 there is Early Race Packet Pick-up/Late Registration in the Habersham Marketplace. From 4:00-7:00 p.m. participants can pick up their race bag and enjoy the festivities of the BTR Expo. Back by popular demand, Habersham’s own Piace Pizza will be serving their pre-race pasta dinner (reservations required at 379-3287).
On Saturday, March 23, Race Day kicks off at 2:30 p.m. with late registration and packet pick-up. The fun begins at 4:30 p.m. with the Kids 1/4 Mile Fun Run. The 5K Run/Fun Walk and the new Beaufort Challenge begin at 5:00, followed by the signature event at 6:15 – the 8K run, along with the 2nd leg of The Beaufort Challenge. The 5K, 8K and Beaufort Challenge runs will feature Chronotrack timing by RMS Sports and take place on a USATF (USA Track & Field) sanctioned course.
The Oyster Roast festivities begin as the races wind down and all spectators and racers are invited to attend. All race participants over the age of 21 with photo ID will receive a coupon for a free beer. The Brewer Band will play live music throughout the evening. Sea Eagle Market will cater this year’s Oyster Roast, which will feature more than just oysters – grilled chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, banana pudding and more are on the menu. Meals for the kids are also available and include a hotdog, sides and a drink.
For online details about race registration, oyster roast tickets, and more visit www.BeaufortTwilightRun.com – discounts are available for active duty military.
The BTR wants to extend their appreciation to 100 local and regional businesses that are making this year’s race a success including Title Sponsor, Habersham Properties; 8K Sponsor, WaterMark Coastal Homes; and featured sponsors Better Body Groceries, EarthFit and Levitt Healthcare. In the past four years, the BTR has raised more than $100,000 to benefit Riverview Charter School (RCS) – a free public school open to Beaufort County K-8th grade students. This year’s goal is to raise more than $50,000 to be used for the School’s technology, athletic and after-school programs.