The Fiddlin’ 5K Walk/Run in Mars Hill, North Carolina, is set to return on May 2, offering a unique experience for participants with live music accompanying the entire course. This event, organized by dedicated volunteer members of the Rotary Club of Madison County, serves a dual purpose: promoting a healthy lifestyle and generating crucial funds for youth-based arts and music programs throughout the county.
Since its inception in 2018, the Rotary Club of Madison County has been instrumental in supporting these vital programs. To date, they have awarded an impressive $17,500 in arts grants. These grants have reached a diverse range of organizations and initiatives, including:
- 4-H
- Madison County Arts Council
- Mars Hill University Theater Arts
- Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM)
- Madison County Schools
The event itself promises a vibrant atmosphere. The course begins on the scenic Mars Hill University campus, winding along the Dr. W. Otis Duck Memorial Greenway, adjacent to the Ponder Softball field. Adding to the festive mood, the popular Asheville-area group, Nobody’s Darling String Band, will be performing live at the start/finish line. Further enlivening the route, other local Madison County bands and individual musicians will be stationed along the course, providing continuous musical entertainment for runners and walkers.
Connie Molland, a Rotarian and Madison County’s first district governor for Rotary District 7670, highlighted the club’s motivation behind organizing the Fiddlin’ 5K. “When the Rotary Club took over organizing the Fiddlin’ 5K in 2017, we did it with the intention of creating an ongoing funding stream for youth-based arts because it is often one of the first areas to get hit by budget cuts,” she stated. This proactive approach ensures that arts and music education remains accessible to the youth of Madison County, fostering creativity and cultural enrichment.
The Rotary District 7670 encompasses 22 counties in Western North Carolina, with various meeting locations across the region. These include multiple spots in Asheville, Hendersonville, and other towns like Arden, Burnsville, Franklin, and Waynesville, demonstrating the widespread reach and commitment of the Rotary organization.
A special consideration is made for older participants and North Carolina residents. Every participant aged 50 and older who resides in North Carolina will automatically be registered as a Senior Games Athlete at no additional cost. These individuals will receive a Senior Games T-shirt and will have the opportunity to qualify for placement at the prestigious N.C. State Senior Games, adding an extra layer of competition and recognition for seasoned athletes.
Betsy Richards, an event chair and fellow Rotarian, shared her enthusiasm for the community’s involvement. “We’ve been contacting individuals and businesses throughout Madison County for sponsorships and participants,” she explained. “In past years, we have had nearly 200 runners, from 7 to 81 years old.” This broad age range underscores the inclusive nature of the event, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.
Registration and Event Details
For those eager to join the Fiddlin’ 5K Walk/Run, registration is straightforward. Participants can sign up online at RunSignup.com. The registration fee is $35. However, to encourage early commitment, the price will increase to $39 after April 15.
The day’s events will commence with check-in and on-site registration opening at 7:30 a.m. at the Otis Duck Greenway, located next to the Ponder softball fields. The walk/run itself is scheduled to begin promptly at 9 a.m., ensuring a well-organized start to the day.
For any inquiries or further information regarding the Fiddlin’ 5K, interested individuals are encouraged to contact Betsy Richards directly at 770-548-0862. Online registration can be completed by visiting the following link: https://runsignin.com/Race/NC/MarsHill/Fiddlin5K.
The Fiddlin’ 5K Walk/Run represents more than just a race; it’s a community-driven initiative that celebrates fitness, music, and the invaluable support of arts and music programs for the youth of Madison County.
