By David Freeze
Resolution Run, Why You Should Do It?
Rowan County had 31 normal races in 2025, plus we had two Girls on the Run events. Some of these events were small and three of them pushed on 400 participants. The West Rowan Bible Teachers 5K, the Butterball 5K and Winter Flight’s 8K and 5K were the big ones. We’ve had great fun at all of them, in fact, some people enjoy them so much that they seldom miss one. Why is that?
First and easiest is that we all need to challenge ourselves with good exercise, at a pace that we can handle. Since most of the local events are 5K’s, 3.1 miles, all ages are welcome. We often see kids, 9 and under, and occasionally we’ll get 90-year-olds to join in.
Do a few and be assured that you’ll make new friends, even without trying hard. Walkers are always welcome and many of them walk and talk the whole distance of the race. Many of our races average about 100 people, and it is my guarantee that if you join in at whatever pace, you’ll soon be looking for blossoming friendships at the next one.
We all love the outdoors, and you’ll get plenty of that. Some of the races are scenic, but no doubt you will enjoy improving your health while exploring new areas. I found out years ago that every time I went to a new race, I learned something about the town or city. You probably would too!
Races locally remain inexpensive, often half of what they cost in Charlotte. Our 5K’s average about $30 per entry, and for that total, participants will be a part of a group effort for better health, get a quality dri-fit t-shirt or some other exercise apparel like socks, gloves or toboggans. Participants also get great refreshments and a chance at overall and age group awards.
While what you as the participant may get is important, just as big is what the charitable organization gets because of your presence. Sponsors of all shapes and sizes see the event and want to be part of it, and in the long run, the host charity is the biggest winner of all.
Another way to make the most of one of our local runs is to volunteer for it, to just say, “How can I help? What can I do?” Those are the two sweetest phrases that a race director gets to hear.
So, how can you get involved, get your feet wet and just give it a try? We have one race a year that has been long intended for boosting new commitments to better health for the upcoming year. Would you believe that this race is next, just at the right time of year? Just when everyone is worried about resolutions! The problem with most resolutions is they aren’t defined enough or aren’t achievable. The “I want to lose weight!” or “I am going to improve my health!” aren’t easily measurable or achievable.
The Resolution 5K is Thursday, January 1st, and is hosted by The Forum and Salisbury Rowan Runners. It is open to anyone; pace doesn’t matter and the best part for many is that the cost is only $10 early registration and $15 on New Year’s Day. Participants get a new shirt, plenty of refreshments and the knowledge that the whole event benefits Rowan Helping Ministries.
If you have thought about doing a 5K locally and want to explore what makes the experience so much fun, this is the perfect run/walk 5K to get started. Come do your pace, nobody else will care, except that they will be glad you showed up to just be a part of the fun. You’ll get encouraged, and then you’ll feel proud of yourself for doing all the good things mentioned here.
It’s simple, go to www.salisburyrowanrunners.org and click on race calendar and then the Resolution 5K. You will see several ways to sign up. And stop by New Year’s morning to tell me that you made it! Bring a few extra canned goods or used running shoes for Rowan Helping Ministries too!
