Runners Shine in PTC Foundation’s Spring Forward 5K

A Memorable Race Held in Newberry

Newberry – The Piedmont Technical College (PTC) Foundation ushered in spring with their 3rd annual Spring Forward for Student Success 5K Run/Walk. This increasingly popular event, held on March 23, 2024, witnessed participation from seasoned runners and enthusiastic newcomers.

Aaran King, 34, from Greenwood emerged as the top male finisher with an impressive time of 17:11.60 for the 5K distance, maintaining an average pace of 5:32 per mile. For the women, 19-year old Lacy Latham from North Augusta clinched the top spot, completing the race in 24:06.97 at an average pace of 7:46 per mile.

Perfect Conditions for a Spring Run

The event, held at the college’s Lex Walters Campus-Greenwood, saw a turnout of 54 runners and over 40 walkers. Despite initially damp conditions, the sun graciously unveiled itself during the awards ceremony, setting a sublime backdrop.

The race course, a US Track and Field-certified course, wound its way around the campus grounds. All proceeds from the event will be directed towards student scholarships and assistance in purchasing required texts and supplies. The event successfully raised $14,365 this year.

Community and Sponsorship Support

Fran Wiley, associate vice president for development with the PTC Foundation, expressed her delight at the event’s success and the support it received from the community. “Whole families turned out to support a great cause and make memories to last a lifetime,” Wiley said. “The fact that several elite runners thrilled those in attendance was a true bonus. We are extremely pleased with everyone’s participation, and I would like to especially recognize the many sponsors who contributed to the event’s success.”

Finishing line sponsors included Prisma Health Laurens and GMK Associates, Inc. Warm-Up Sponsors featured The Links at Stoney Point, Piersol State Farm Insurance, and Manley Garvin, LLC. Mile-Marker Sponsors comprised Ascend Cares, CC&M, Davis & Floyd, Inc., Eaton, First Citizens Bank, Greenwood Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission, Self Regional Healthcare, and Velux.

Continued Support for a Worthy Cause

Laura Dudley, development coordinator with the PTC Foundation, extended her gratitude towards the sponsors. “Our amazing sponsors continually lend support to this and other Foundation events year after year to help ensure our students can succeed,” said Dudley. “We are so grateful for their generous sponsorship.”

For complete race results, fans and participants can visit the official PTC website.