TCTC’s Annual 5K Run saluting Veterans this year

Tri-County Technical College’s annual road race, set for May 17, has a new name and a refocused purpose, raising funds to support scholarships and services for student veterans. Renamed the Tri-County Patriot Run, the College’s 5K Race and One-Mile Run/Walk will be at the Anderson Campus on Armed Forces Day, May 17, at 8am.  The race starts and ends at the Anderson Campus, located at 511 Michelin Boulevard, and offers a safe, family-friendly setting on a closed-course that is certified by the U.S. Track and Field Association. “We wanted to give our race a meaningful purpose – supporting our student veterans,” said Tim Bowen, director of the College’s Anderson Campus and race director.  All proceeds from the race and related events will be used to support services and scholarships for student veterans at Tri-County Technical College, he said.  “Supporting our veterans is something we can all get our hearts wrapped around. The race falls on Armed Forces Day and is the weekend before Memorial Day, so participating in the event is a way we can salute our active service men and women, honor our veterans and remember those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom,” said Bowen.  “In addition, we’ve rebranded the one-mile race, calling it The Miracle Mile,” he said.  “We are encouraging anyone with disabilities, and especially our wounded and disabled veterans, to participate,” he said.  “We’re expecting a big crowd,” said Bowen, adding that several veterans’ services organizations will be on site to provide information to veterans and their families.  In the 5K race, cash awards will be given to the top three finishers in the Open and Masters categories and there will be age group awards for the top three finishers in each five-year category beginning with age 9 and under. In addition, the overall male and female winner of The Miracle Mile will receive a medal. The entry fees have been kept low to encourage many people to register and help support this worthy cause. Employees, retirees, students and alumni of the College receive a discount upon registration. Additionally, all veterans and active service members are eligible to receive $5 off whatever rate is applicable at the time of registration.  Teams are especially encouraged. Anyone may form a team and teams of ten or more receive a discounted rate. College employee teams compete each year for the coveted Faculty/Staff Team Award, which includes a large trophy and bragging rights for one year.  For more information visit www.tctc.edu and click on upcoming events.