Catholic Charities West Virginia’s (CCWVa) eighth annual Race for Hope will be held Saturday, May 5, in Elkins, W.Va. The race features a half marathon and a 5k walk/run on the Allegheny Highlands Bike Trail.
“The Race for Hope provides a great way for people to enjoy the natural beauty of our state and to support others in need,” said Teresa Wymer, CCWVa Weston Region director.
The race will start and finish at the Leading Creek Fire Department north of Elkins. Ample water stops and restrooms will be available along the course. Awards for both the half marathon and the 5k will be given for top male and female overall and to the top two finishers in each age group.
Proceeds from the race will support the vital services CCWVa provides in its work providing caring and compassionate services to people in need and working toward lasting and meaningful change. Funds raised will benefit the CCWVa Weston Region, which serves the counties of Braxton, Gilmer, Lewis, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Randolph, Tucker, Upshur and Webster.
“We’ve been thrilled to see the energy the race has developed over the past few years,” Wymer said. “Runners and walkers really enjoy the course, especially this time of year.”
Darin Partridge previously participated in the Race for Hope, completing a half marathon. His goal was to run a half marathon in every state, and he chose to run the Race for Hope in West Virginia.
“When I arrived, I found a helpful staff and very pleasant surroundings,” said Partridge. “I’ve run in large events and small events and I must admit that I loved the small-town feel of your race. The race course was amazing… a great location.”
Registrations may be made online. Those who pre-register are guaranteed a T-shirt in the size of their choice. Registration will also be held on the day of the race, beginning at 8:30 a.m.
The Race for Hope begins at 10 a.m. Complete details may be found on the CCWVa website.
The CCWVa team members said that they are humbled by the support given to those in need in their area. They are also grateful for the presenting sponsors for this year’s race, AES Laurel Mountain, LLC and Elkins Auto. Additional sponsors include St. Brendan’s Holy Rosary Guild, Davis Medical, Mountain Valley Bank, the Knights of Columbus Elkins Council and Leading Creek Volunteer Fire Department.
“People care about their community and do what they can to help others who are struggling,” Wymer said. “We’re looking forward to another inspirational and fun event this year.”
