For the 2024 race, retreat attendees will be "piggy-backing" off an existing race, the Friends of the Lake 5k.

A FUN, FAST RACE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

A simple "lollipop" route (out-and-back with a loop around the lake). Mostly flat with a few short hills. 


​2023 Race Event Info

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​This race is great for first-time racers. Walkers are also welcome! 
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  • Race Date: Saturday July 15, 2023
  • Location: Lake Junaluska in Waynesville, NC
  • Starting Line: Nanci Weldon Gym on North Lakeshore Drive behind Lake Junaluska Welcome Center
  • Inclement Weather: We will hold the race rain or shine

COURSE
For the 2023 race, the 5k course is mostly flat on paved trails around Lake Junaluska. Check out the course map for more details. Unfortunately, the 10k course distance will not be happening anymore.
  • Average Temp: Low 62 – High 81.
  • Water stations will be set up to keep you hydrated.

ENTRY FEE REGISTRATION for 5k
  • Early registration thru May 31: $25
  • June 1 to July 13: $35
  • NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION!

PACKET PICKUP
  • Friday, July 14, 2023 ~ 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM near the boat dock, under the gift shop in the Harrell Center.
  • Saturday, July 15, 2023 ~ 7:00 AM - 7:20 AM at the race start.
  • WE ENCOURAGE ALL RACERS TO PICK UP THEIR REGISTRATION PACKETS ON FRIDAY NIGHT. Please bring your confirmation with the QR code. If you don't get a QR code, we can look up your registration by name or email.

SCHEDULE​
  • Race Start: 7:30 AM 
  • Finish Time: 8:30 AM - ALL racers are expected to finish by 8:30 AM
  • Awards Ceremony: about 8:45 AM, shortly after the last runner comes in and the times are posted
  • Literacy Partner Books Presentation: about 9:00 AM, directly following the awards

TIMING/AWARDS
This race will be chip timed. All racers are expected to finish by 8:30 AM if you want your timing results posted. Awards will be presented in the following categories. NO DOUBLE DIPPING FOR OVERALL FINISHERS. Overall finishers will receive PRIZES donated by our sponsors.
  • Top 3 Male Finishers Overall for 5k
  • Top 3 Female Finishers Overall for 5k
  • Top Male and Female Finishers in the following 12 age categories for the 5k:
    • 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65+

T-SHIRTS
  • Custom design
  • 100% cotton
  • Adult unisex sizing in small, medium, large, and XL, and XXL
  • Those who register by Sunday, June 25th are guaranteed a T-shirt.

CANCELLATION POLICY
No refunds. In the event the race should be cancelled for any reasons beyond the control of the Race Director or Race Committee (e.g. extreme inclement weather or unsafe conditions; local, state or national emergency), refunds will not be made. Runners who want to cancel for any reason will not be given a refund. We will still hold the race if it rains. 

RULES & GUIDELINES 
For safety reasons, we do not allow dogs, bicycles, inline skates, or skateboards on the race course. Strollers are allowed, but must line up in the back. Race Director reserves the right to reject any entry or to remove any participant from the race course without explanation. When you register, you will must sign the online waiver release form.