Blog: Feature Stories

Running truly is a gift. (Ask any runner who’s been forced to take some time off, right?) For those of us Running Around Charlotte, there are any number of ways to pay that gift forward. Here’s our updated list, starting with programs for local youth. Each year, the list of opportunities to pay it forward grows – and that’s a good thing, too. 

We’ve included links to find out more or contribute to these local nonprofits. For the more than curious, we’ve added links to related episodes of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. 

Western North Carolina Relief Efforts 

Whether you’ve run, raced, hiked, or just popped-over to play, we can all pretty much agree; the western part of the state is pretty special. Some places are back up and in business, but there’s lots to be done in the recovery department. Here are links to a few lists from of vetted relief agencies: 

From The Charlotte Ledger: https://charlotteledger.substack.com/p/why-restoring-clean-water-is-taking 

From Axios Charlotte: https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/09/29/helene-flooding-north-carolina-donations-help

From Charlotte FIVE: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/charlottefive/c5-things-to-do/article295811609.html

Your Local Public School’s Athletic Program

The high schools or middle schools in your area likely have cross country and track programs that are woefully underfunded, and need your dollars to share the sport with marginalized kids. Simply contact the school of choice and ask about a booster club or foundation for the athletic department!

CMS Athletics site (with schools): CMS Athletics – Charlotte 

Girls on the Run

The earlier we can teach girls to be active and healthy, the more likely they are to make good habits that last a lifetime. Girls on the Run, founded in Charlotte, became a national phenomenon based on this premise. The popular afterschool program offers the opportunity and encouragement girls need to learn about inner strength, confidence, and their own health and fitness at a crucial age. GOTR teaches skills of character, care, and self-reliance through running.

To Give: https://www.gotrgreaterclt.org/Support-Us

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2023/11/21/karen-gipson-girls-on-the-run/ 

Let Me Run

If you’ve heard of Girls on the Run, you may know there is a similar group for boys called Let Me Run. A new, reformulated-for-the-times curriculum addresses boys’ emotional needs brought on by the pandemic, in addition to its traditional format of challenging the “Boy Code.” The non-profit program, also founded in Charlotte and growing nationwide, encourages boys in 4th through 8th grade to be healthy, build relationships, and live active lifestyles with skills learned through running and positive communication. 

To Give: Let Me Run Donations | LetMeRun.org

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2022/11/22/jesse-smith/ 

Cross Country for Youth

Cross Country for Youth introduces young people to cross-country and character-building concepts with twice-a-week training. The non-profit for 9- to 14- year-olds (4^th – 8^th grades) teaches endurance, flexibility, and character development through group runs, stretching, and focused talks about Integrity, Respect, Sportsmanship, Responsibility, Perseverance, Teamwork, Commitment, Courage, Discipline and Leadership.

To Give: Cross-Country For Youth

More Than Miles
Founded by our friends at Mad Miles, this nonprofit 501(c)(3) aims to build and strengthen community. Their three pillars of focus are to provide resources to the community, promote educational advancement, and encourage acts of service. Naturally, we’re fans. 

Their “More Than Miles” scholarship was created to provide collegiate students the opportunity to develop professionally and socially while highlighting the importance of community in building successful networks. 

To Give: https://www.madmilesrunclub.com/morethanmiles
To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2023/08/01/cornell-jones-mad-miles/

Josh Neuman Foundation
Chris and Kristin Neuman started this Charlotte-based nonprofit to honor their son, Josh – an extreme skateboard athlete and YouTube star who died in a plane crash in 2022. Josh leveraged his fame for good, and the Neuman’s continue to help others “Live a Good Story” through the foundation. Focused on feeding others and providing access to clean water, the Josh Neuman Foundation partnered with Nourish Up at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon and their “Miles for Meals” program.

To Give: https://joshneumanfoundation.org
To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2024/10/10/kristin-neuman-courtney-oates/ 

Samaritan’s Feet 

Samaritan’s Feet believes that a new pair of shoes can provide a tangible foundation of hope, and decrease the possibility of getting a foot-borne disease. Since its founding in 2003, this Charlotte-based non-profit and partners have distributed over 8 million pairs of shoes in 108 countries and over 440 U.S. cities. 

To Give: Samaritans Feet  

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2020/11/17/tracie-ohonme/

Black Men Run 

Black Men Run is about more than just getting in the miles. This program aims to reverse negative health trends and increased health risks that plague Black males, by offering support and camaraderie through running. The organization’s mission is to encourage African American males to get out and be active. The Charlotte chapter of this national organization is active and open to all! 

To Give: Black Men Run: Home

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2021/11/09/gregory-washington/ 

Achilles International 

Achilles International is a global organization operating in 18 countries including the US, transforms the lives of people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection. Since their founding in 1983, Achilles International has empowered over 150,000 athletes of all ages and ability levels to participate in endurance events around the globe. You’ve probably seen some of them at the finish of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon! 

To Give: https://give.achillesinternational.org/give/321270/#!/donation/checkout 

NC Special Olympics 

Special Olympics North Carolina held its first Games in 1970 with 400 participants and has since grown to be recognized globally as one of the largest Special Olympics programs in the world. Nearly 40,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities participate in Special Olympics North Carolina. 

To Give: https://support.specialolympics.org/a/north-carolina?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_sozurce=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP 

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2023/06/06/philip-blount/ 

Black Girls Run 

Black Girls Run was launched in 2009 to encourage and motivate Black women to practice a healthy lifestyle, and to battle what the nonprofit calls the “growing obesity epidemic” in the African American community. The group is a fitness resources to get ALL women moving — regardless of race — and lower the number of women with chronic diseases associated with an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle.

To Give: BGR! Foundation

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2021/04/13/black-girls-run/ 

Para Guide

Running a marathon or taking part in other sports is a big enough challenge for most anyone. Now imagine you are training or competing with a visual impairment that doesn’t let you see the crowd or bumps in the road as clearly as the other athletes. Para Guides allows athletes with visual disabilities to train and compete in swimming, cycling, running, or group activities by pairing them with another athlete or coach who guides their way, even providing transportation if they have none. 

To Give: Blind Running | Para Guide | United States

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2019/09/03/shannon-houlihan/

Speed for Need

This nonprofit was created with inclusiveness in mind. Trained drivers (runners) share races with their special needs Track Commanders (riders) by pushing them in customized racing wheelchairs. Speed for Need has a mission to raise awareness and foster inclusion of those with a special need, supported by the men of F3 Nation.

To Give: Speed for Need | Who Pushes Who?

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2019/07/23/kevin-young/

Hemby Foundation

The Hemby Foundation is the charitable entity that supports the Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital, beneficiaries of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. While not technically a running nonprofit, they work daily to protect and preserve the health of our children so they can grow strong and run someday! 

To Give: Support Hemby Children’s Hospital

To Listen: https://runningaroundclt.blubrry.net/2021/09/28/jessica-osborn/ 

Know of a running-related nonprofit that needs to be on this list? Let us know! Email ed@runcharlotte.com 

# # # 

By now you’ve probably heard the news: the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is a sold out affair. That includes every one of Saturday’s events: marathon, half marathon, relay, and the Chick-fil-A 5k. Even if “must do” and “marathon” are terms you’d never utter in the same sentence, this year’s record-setting event really will be a must-see! 

For starters, it’s the 20^th anniversary running of the event; you’ll at least want to tell your friends, “yeah – I was there!” There’s a record number of registrants this year, representing all 50 states and 19 countries. Showing off a little local color will give them something to go home with and tell their friends. And, it truly is inspiring to see all of these athletes taking on the challenge here at the end of the year. 

That being said, here’s where to see and be seen at this year’s event: 

Start line: Early-risers, this one’s for you. EVERY event starts Saturday morning along South Tryon Street, between Levine Ave. of the Arts and Brooklyn Village Ave. Marathon, half marathon, and relay runners begin at 7:20am; Chick-fil-A 5k runners begin at 7:35am. 

Mile 4.3: Plenty of great viewing space on both sides of Providence Road here. Runners should all still be buzzing with the excitement from the start line, and relay runners will be nearing their first handoff. Good times!

Mile 6: Our friends from Around the Crown 10k, Cross Conditioning Training, and the Ballantyne Run Club will collab at this cheer station just past the 10k mark. You’ll be happy to see them just before you make the turn to tackle that climb on Morehead Street! 

Mile 9: The Charlotte Running Club hosts this cheer station along Latta Park in Dilworth. It’s really a beautiful stretch along the route. Both full and half marathon athletes are still together at this point, so everyone gets a dose of the good, local vibes here. 

Mile 11: Our partners and friends from Dole will host their first-ever cheer station here. We cannot confirm or deny the presence of Bobby Banana at this location. They’re celebrating 125 years in the banana business. Expect fun to be had! 

Mile 14.5: At Belmont Ave. and North Davidson, the gang from Birdsong Brewing Run Club hosts this annual cheer station. It’s a great hang, and a welcome site for marathoners who’re just over a mile into the second half of their journey. 

Mile 17.5: Summit Coffee on the Plaza (2501 The Plaza) hosts this cheer station out of this popular morning run club location. If you’re local, you’ll want to add their Friday 6:15am run with the folks from Charlotte Running Club. 

Mile 18: Marathon runners pass Mattie’s Diner (3100 The Plaza) two times. The Mattie’s Diner Run Club and friends will be getting loud and proud. Easy parking at the Diner, in the adjacent lot across Shamrock Drive, or across the street at the grocery store. 

Mile 20: The Plaza, between Chestnut and Kensington. The people and the party in Plaza Midwood never disappoint. TBH, by the time you see them, they’ve probably been partying as long as you’ve been running. A real shot of energy and enthusiasm, and other stuff, if you’re amenable.

Mile 24.75: This is the second of two cheer stations hosted by Let Me Run. (The first is near NW corner of Latta Park, near mile 9.3) And the timing is perfect here, as marathoners have just about a mile and a half to the finish. If you’re not trying to find a runner at the finish, this is a great place to give runners one last, “you can do it!”  

Mile 26: Here at South Graham Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., the finish line is literally right around the corner. An absolutely appropriate spot to yell, “you’re almost there!” 

You can also find all of the cheer stations and entertainment locations along the event routes here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1d5dLYR55lRyy4dzVBg4ua_52oh1eegs&femb=1&ll=35.22828870261735%2C-80.84929656183243&z=19 

20^th Anniversary Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Weekend is Here!

FOR IMMEDIATE USE: 

November 14, 2024

Charlotte —  There’s plenty to celebrate this weekend at the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon! For starters, this year marks the 20^th running of the annual event. And, for the first time ever, all event distances are sold out. This year’s registrants represent all 50 states and 19 countries. 

All events start and finish in uptown Charlotte. Organizers are prepared for a record 9600 runners who’ll take on the full marathon, half marathon, relays, a rucking division, or 5k distance. 

“This really is a celebration of the running community and its ongoing support,” said Tim Rhodes, Managing Partner and Race Director for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. “We’re grateful for that, and the support of the City of Charlotte, public safety, the thousands of volunteers, the neighborhoods, and everyone who’s hosting a party or a cheer station along the course.” 

The weekend’s events begins Friday, November 15^th with the Health and Wellness Expo and packet pick-up at the Charlotte Convention Center. The Expo is free and open to the public, and include a day full of activities, vendors, retail experiences, Charlotte’s DJ Rosice, and LIVE recording sessions of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. 

Saturday, November 16^th events include the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, half marathon, rucking half marathon, full and half marathon relays, and the Chick-fil-A 5k; all of which start on S. Tryon Street, between Levine Avenue of the Arts and Brooklyn Village Ave. in uptown Charlotte.  

Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Event Weekend Schedule: 

Friday, November 15

Health and Wellness Expo and Packet Pick-Up 

Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College Street, CLT 28202 

10:00am — 7:00pm 

Saturday, November 16

ALL events start on South Tryon Street, between Levine Ave. of the Arts and Brooklyn Village Ave.

7:20am — Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, half marathon, and marathon/half marathon relay starts

7:35am — Chick-fil-A 5K start 

Neighbors and drivers can find more information about traffic delays and road clear estimates here: https://thecharlottemarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/TBT-marathon-directions_2024.pdf 

About RunCharlotte and the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon 

RunCharlotte is Charlotte’s home for the resources, inspiration, and experiences to guide runners of all paces. Since 2005, the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has capped the local road racing season. The event, its participants, and partners have contributed nearly $500,000 to support programs at Novant Health’s Hemby Children’s Hospital. November 16, 2024 marks the event’s 20^th anniversary. https://thecharlottemarathon.com 

# # # 

Media contact: DC Lucchesi dc@well-runmedia.com 704-577-8459 

It’s that time of year. When our social media feeds are filled with finish line pics and triumphant photos from New York, Chicago, Marine Corps, and other marathon stories of personal success… served up with side of feeling that we’re missing out. This sensation can be particularly acute for us runners who find ourselves on the sidelines, whether by choice or circumstance.

Arguably, the running community is supportive by nature, but it’s also a breeding ground for comparison. When you see friends, celebs, and even strangers conquering these events, it’s easy to feel a surge of motivation mixed with a dash of envy. Scrolling through all the post-race selfies and reading emotional recaps can trigger a sense of urgency to participate – whether or not you’re physically or mentally prepared. 

Those feeling can be amplified for runners who can’t find an opportunity to write their own success stories – like those hoping to register for this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, only to find entries sold out. You read that right. As of this writing, the marathon, half marathon, relay, and rucking divisions have all reached capacity. Entries to the Chick-fil-A 5k are the only ones remaining for the November 16 events. 

What To Do If You Missed Out 

But just because you can’t find an entry for this year’s event, that doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the 20^th anniversary celebration. Here are just a few ways to be part of the excitement:

Register for the Chick-Fil-A 5K: A great option for runners of all levels to participate in the event weekend. 

Volunteer Opportunities: Contribute to the running community by volunteering at the Expo or on race day.

Join the Party: Celebrate with runners and friends this Sunday, November 10^th for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon sendoff party. It starts at 3pm at Mattie’s Diner. (3100 The Plaza, CLT 28205)

Join the Waitlist: There is a waitlist for the FULL Marathon only. https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Charlotte/CharlotteMarathon 

The Bigger Picture

Remember that running is a lifelong journey, not a single event. FOMO can push you to grow, but it shouldn’t dictate your running decisions. Listen to your body, respect your current circumstances, focus on your personal progress, and plan ahead. At least in the near future, more and more events are expected to reach capacity – and faster. A full 60% of respondents to the Running USA 2024 Global Running Survey indicating they’ll run even MORE events in the coming years.  

And just like that, it’s dark. Really dark.

Remember those lovely evening run club get-togethers, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun? Well, kiss those goodbye. Yes, we know we’ve been losing daylight since the summer solstice, but this is just too much drama. Now, by the time we lace up after work, it’s darker than a black hole’s basement. Soon we’ll be running by streetlight, headlamps on, and it’s not even 6pm.

Literally, just derailing the motivation train.

“I’ll just wake up earlier and run in the morning!” Can confirm that we’ve used that line, but have had little luck executing on that plan. It’s ridiculous how an hour’s difference can wreck your body’s rhythm. Now that 6am alarm feels like 3am, and the bed has never been more magnetic. Even though “falling back” allegedly gains us an hour, we have a hard time convincing our body and brain they’re winning here.

Shifting Gear

At least summer running’s wardrobe is simple. “Shoulder season” requires a whole new kind of study in local meteorology. Shorts or tights? Long sleeves, arm warmers, jackets or vests? Once you’re layered up like an onion, you’ll soon be shedding clothes trying to find that happy place between too cold and too warm. And does anyone remember where they stored all that reflective gear and headlamps when they got stored away last spring?

Running buddies dropping like flies

Running partners can get a little scarce this time of year. The darker and colder it gets, you’ll find those fair-weather running friends will go into hibernation, leaving you with even more reasons to stay put. Trying to organize a group run requires the persuasive powers of a used car salesman. “No, really, it’ll be fun,” you tell them, knowing damned well they’ll probably hate it. You’ll promise post-run coffee, a conversational pace, and all that jazz. At least it’s always a surprise to find out who’ll actually show up.

Here are some tips to roll with the changes from our friend Juliet Kuehnle at Sun Counseling and Wellness: 

• Get as much light as possible in the morning to help regulate your internal clock.
• Consider exploring new indoor exercise routines or joining classes that add some structure and motivation.
• Adjust your goals to focus on the mood benefits of exercise. Rather than chasing personal bests, aim to get moving in ways that feel good.

Daylight savings time’s end feels like a temporal assault on our well-established running routines, forcing us to unnecessarily adapt. Yes, we’ll be irrationally angry about it — for a little while, anyway. We’ll rage against the dying light (literally) until we get to do it all again in the spring. And just when we feel like we’ve gotten into a groove…