Building Healthy Communities 5K Run/Walk and Wellness Expo

Location
Hampton Park
30 Mary Murray Drive
Charleston, SC 29403


General info/introduction

You do not have to be a paid and registered participant to enjoy the Wellness Expo and raffle portions of the event--everyone is welcome. The 5K run/walk pricing information is detailed in the "Pricing" section of the website. There are numerous discounts available!

The 5K run/walk will raise funds to benefit the MUSC Children's Health Wellness Works program. Come run or walk a USATF-certified 5K course to join in the fight against childhood obesity and related health issues. We also have a lot of exciting raffle prizes to offer, so bring cash or card to purchase raffle tickets and participate in the drawing after the race (no checks will be accepted).

Your registration fee includes a t-shirt, race packet with swag, water and healthy snacks. We also offer official timing and overall/age-group awards (three deep)! A finisher's medal will be given to all who complete the entire 5K course. The Wellness Expo, day-of registration, and on-site packet pick-up begin at 8:00 am, mandatory pre-race meeting is at 8:45am, group warm-up kicks off at 8:50 am, and the run/walk starts at 9:00 am. The finish-line party including food truck (food for purchase), Wellness Expo, prize raffle, age-group awards, and healthy snacks will follow!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

You do not need an ID. There are no age limits! Bring the whole family (and even your dog)! All ages are encouraged to walk and participate in the fun. Ages 4 and under are free.
2. Can I check in and pick up my packet early?

Yes! There are two packet pick-up options:
Friday, February 7th--location and times to come
Saturday, February 8th--check-in starts at 8:00am at Hampton Park

3. Is this event timed?

Yes! We offer official timing and awards for overall winners and age groups (3 deep). You will receive a timing chip on your race bib in your registration packet.

4.  Is this a well-marked and official 5K course?

Yes, the course is well-marked and USATF Certified. There is a mandatory pre-race meeting at 8:45am that will cover important points about the course. All fitness levels are welcomed to attend.

5. Are there any discounts available?

Yes!! There are early-bird discounts and group registration is discounted 15% off for small groups of 4-9 people and 20% off for large groups of 10 or more people.  By registering as a group, you save money and get to have fun with your family and friends the day of the event!  Active military and veterans can also receive 10% off by entering the code MILVET2025 at checkout--thank you for your service.  Charleston Running Club members, Fleet Feet running club members, Blue Sky Endurance running club members, AXES/Charleston Multisport and Triathlon Club members, MUSC Wellness Center members, and Zoo Wellness Center members can receive 10% off race registration with a special coupon code (CAN be combined with group discounts for bigger savings). Please inquire with race director for these codes.  (Note: The Charleston Running Club is a local running club, open to all. For more information, please visit their website at www.charlestonrunningclub.com.)

6. What are my transportation/parking options getting to the event?

You are responsible for your own transportation to the event, but there is plenty of parking on the streets surrounding Hampton Park. If you are unable to find a place to park on the surrounding streets, the Hagood parking lot on Hagood Ave. between Fishburne St. and Line St. is available for free (short walk to the park). Please obey all posted street signs regarding parking restrictions (weekend rules apply). You may park within the park, but it is closed to vehicles until noon, so you may not be able to leave until it opens again (12:00pm).

7. Do kids under 4 receive a free t-shirt?

No, only paid registrants receive a t-shirt (and children under 4 are free). Extra t-shirts (including child sizes) will be available for sale at the event.

8. Do I have to buy raffle tickets?

A prize raffle will take place following the fun run/walk at approximately 10:15am. You are not required to participate in the raffle, but if you want the chance to win some amazing prizes you must purchase at least 1 raffle ticket. All prizes have been donated by community partners and the funds will go directly to the Wellness Works program. You can purchase raffle tickets online or at the event (cash or card only; no checks accepted), but you must be present to win. Raffle tickets purchased online prior to the event will be charged a processing fee.

9. Is the food truck giving away free food/beverages?

No, the food truck will be serving food and beverages for purchase. Of note, their menu will be limited to the healthiest options they offer, since this is a wellness event. We will be providing free snacks and water for all participants at the finish line, but bring money for the food truck (they accept all forms of payment, including tap-to-pay).

10. Do I have to bring a printed ticket to the event?

You are not required to bring a printed ticket. There are three ways to check in on race morning if you are pre-registered: you can print your ticket and bring it with you, show us your ticket displayed on your smartphone or provide us with your name for us to check you off our list.

11. What is the refund policy?

Sorry, no refunds will be offered, but all of the proceeds go to support a non-profit, family-oriented program benefiting the community. We appreciate your support!

12. Am I able to donate to the program in addition to my entry fee?

Yes!  Thank you for inquiring.  There is a section on the event website where donations can be entered (button on the top right of the sign-up page or follow this direct link: https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/SC/Charleston/BuildingHealthyCommunities5K). Thank you so much for supporting a great cause.

13. How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please contact race director Janet Carter at hearthealth@musc.edu or call 843-792-4717 with questions.