The long-awaited Around the Crown 10K is almost here – with more flexibility for start times and a new, scenic course, as the Truist Time Trials. The 10K race won’t be run on I-277 as planned because of COVID — but can be run at any time during the week of December 6 – 12, and even on a runner’s own route!
Partners for Parks is still the beneficiary for the Around the Crown 10K Truist Time Trials, whose “official” course leads runners on a neighborhood route from Camp North End through Uptown Charlotte, Shared Streets, and Mecklenburg County Greenways. The course is a refreshing reminder of the important part parks play in our community, and a taste of the much-beloved Open Streets 704 event, the marquee event of Partners for Parks, that has been postponed because of COVID.
“Our live course, or open course, is probably 60 percent on closed or ‘open streets,’ if you will, and greenways,” says Race Director Brian Mister. “There are a lot of shared and public spaces that we’re using for this event that some people might not have seen before. It goes back to that love for and passion that we both have for getting people into parks, greenways, and other public places that they may be brand new to them.”
The updated race plan offers even more challenges than the original race – runners now have the option of running it again to get a better time, or running it 5 times for a 50K! With the Second Chance run, runners can donate half of the extra $10 second-chance signup fee to the beneficiary of their choice.
For the “official” designated route, runners will reserve a 30-minute window in the starting area at Camp North End during race week and can begin their run at any time during their window. Mask, sanitation, and social distancing rules will be in effect for the start and finish areas and encouraged along the route.
The first week of December in Charlotte generally has high temperatures in the upper 50’s — perfect “running weather.” And yes, ATC10K will still adhere to the same sustainability goals, with a water-only event, collapsible, reusable cups, and recycled-material race T-shirts from Recover Brands.
“We are very, very happy to be a part of this continuing effort to get outside and enjoy the outdoors in these trying times,” says Partners for Parks Treasurer Al Brown. “We appreciate all of the donations and support they have given us for our activities at Partners for Parks. We wish them a lot of success, and we think it’s going to be great!”
Want to get outdoors and take part in this great event? Registration is still open! https://aroundthecrown10k.com/
