Runners brave the cold during a previous year’s race. The eighth annual Frozen 5K for Haiti is Saturday, Feb. 6.Signal Mountain Bible Church is set to hold the eighth annual Frozen 5K for Haiti Saturday, Feb. 6, with registration from 6:30-7:30 a.m. and the race beginning at 9 a.m.
“It’s fun, and every dollar raised goes to Haiti, not to administrative fees,” said Tracy Gartman, whose daughter originally started the race. The church took it over several years ago when she left town for college. “It’s really family-oriented, and we try to make it inexpensive.”
The cost to register is $20 the day of the race. Those who mail in their registration postmarked by Saturday, Jan. 30 will receive a $5 discount. Pre-registered participants are also guaranteed to receive a race T-shirt.
The majority of funds raised through the race go toward a youth conference in Grand Bassin for Haitians ages 16-25 concentrating on Bible-based discussion, as well as the teaching of healthy lifestyle and good hygiene practices. In addition to the conference itself, the money covers all meals during the conference for attendees, most of whom would otherwise go hungry or would not be able to attend, Gartman said. A small portion of the funds is also used for medical supplies, he added.
“There are some great people down in Haiti who are struggling, trying to take care of their families, and when you go down there, you see it actually helps,” said Gartman, as to why the cause is important to him, in addition to the drive to carry on what his daughter began.
The course for the 5K race is mostly flat and begins at the church, heading north on Shackleford Ridge Road for a half-mile, then turning in the other direction on Shackleford toward Nolan Elementary and reversing again at the school to head back to the church. A one-mile walk option is also available, Gartman said.
“It’s always cold, so if you like a cold race, it’s a good one to do,” he said, laughing.
Signal Mountain Bible Church is at 4872 Shackleford Ridge Road. For more information or to register, visit smbible.com or email Gartman at rungartmanrun@gmail.com.