Run for Education

Welcome to Gaston College's 5th annual Run for Education, formerly the Stampede for Student Success! This community event is a powerful way to support the students of Gaston College and Lincoln County Schools. Each step you take in this run contributes to programs that make a meaningful difference in students' lives, enabling them to achieve their academic and career goals.

Join a Fundraising Team

When signing up, consider joining a school's fundraising team to maximize your impact and directly benefit our students. As a fundraiser, you'll have the chance to share your story, rally support, and inspire others to contribute to your school’s team. Together, we will empower the next generation of learners!

Student Impact

Gaston College students appreciate the generosity of donors who help them as they work toward their goals. One student scholar recently said, “The financial assistance provided to me by the Gaston College Foundation helped me during a severe and overwhelming time when I thought I was going to give up. I am very proud to be a Gaston College student!”

Race Day Schedule

The 5K Run and 2K Walk will start and finish at Wyss Tower.

• 7:30 AM - 8:15 AM: Race Day Packet Pick up (Wyss Tower)
• 8:30 AM: Announcements
• 8:45 AM: Warmup (Provided by Gaston College Students)
• 9:00 AM: 5K Run Start
• 9:15 AM: 2K Walk Start 
• 10:15 AM: Awards

Packet Pick-Up

Early Pick-up – Thursday, September 18, 2025; Noon - 5:00 PM

Gaston College – Beam Administration Building

400 Rhodes Perimeter Dr, Dallas, NC 28034

Race Day – Saturday, September 20, 2025; 7:30 AM – 8:15 AM

Gaston College – Wyss Tower

(View Course Map Below)

Race Day Registration

Late registration will be offered on race day between 7:30 - 8:15 AM. Credit/Debit card transactions will be the only method of payment that will be accepted.

T-Shirt

Every participant who registered by 11:59 PM on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, will receive a race day t-shirt. Shirts may not be exchanged for different sizes. Any t-shirts not picked up by race day will be available in the Beam Administration Building on the Dallas campus until September 28, 2025, at 5 PM. Any remaining shirts will be donated after this date. 

Awards (5K Only)

We will award the top male and female overall winners.

We will then award the top three finishers for both males and females in each of the following age categories:

• 12 and Under
• 13 - 18
• 19 - 24
• 25 - 29
• 30 - 34
• 35 - 39
• 40 - 44
• 45 - 49
• 50 - 54
• 55 - 59
• 60 - 64
• 65 - 69
• 70 and up

*Overall winners are not eligible to win in their age category

Parking

Race personnel will direct you to an available parking lot. The entrance to Gaston College and the parking lots will close at 8:45 AM. (View Course Map)

Weather/Cancellation Policy

Races are held, rain or shine, unless Gaston College determines that conditions are too dangerous. This decision could be made a few days prior or a few hours before the race begins. Gaston College will determine a makeup date if availability allows. There will be no refunds if the race is canceled due to inclement weather. All participant registration proceeds are applied toward the Gaston College Foundation Fund.