Events
Mountain Heritage Day 5K
Description
Western Carolina University's Sport Management Association invites you to the 15th annual Mountain Heritage Day 5K on Saturday, September 27, 2025! This is a family-friendly chip-timed race for both runners and walkers. The course features a combination of pavement and gravel paths and is appropriate for both beginner and accomplished runners as well as leisure walkers. Participants will dash through WCU's campus past iconic landmarks, including the 'Catafount' water fountain and Alumni Tower. Come enjoy a fun way to stay active while experiencing Western Carolina University's beautiful campus! All proceeds from the 5k race support the Sport Management Association Scholarship Fund.
After completing the race take a short stroll or shuttle ride over to the 50th (+1) anniversary celebration of the award winning Mountain Heritage Day festival, celebrating Southern Appalachian mountain culture through live musical performances and demonstrations, food and craft vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Admission to the festival is always free!
- Age categories for awards: 14 & under / 15-19 / 20-29 / 30-39 / 40-49 / 50-59 / 60-69 / 70 & up
- Chip timing provided by Right On Time Productions Inc.
- Custom handcrafted awards provided by Mud Dabbers Pottery & Crafts (Balsam, NC)
- Awards to the top overall male and female finisher and for the top 3 male and female finishers in each age category.
- Race T-shirt guaranteed to the first 100 registered participants
LIVE RESULTS
COMPLETE AGE GROUP RESULTS
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Course map
Start: Stillwell Science Building
Mile 1: Red
- Start down Central Drive toward Judaculla Residence Hall
- Turn left to cross the road at Judaculla Residence Hall
- Run back on Central Drive towards starting line
- Turn left after crossing the road at the red light
- Run towards the fountain
Mile 2: Yellow
- Stay on the left side of the Fountain
- Run behind Courtyard Dining Hall
- Follow the sidewalk to the WCU bookstore
- Run straight past WCU bookstore on Norton drive towards the Village Apartments
Mile 3: Purple
- Turn around in the cul-de-sac
- Run back towards WCU bookstore
- At the 3-way stop near the bookstore, turn left on Memorial drive
- Turn right at Apodaca Science building
- Follow road and turn left on sidewalk
- Run back to finish line at Stillwell
