Runners and walkers will gather Saturday, Oct. 17, for the Choose Kind 5K, a race held in memory of a teenager killed by a drunken driver one week before her 16th birthday. The race starts at 9 a.m. at Maisie’s Green Brae Restaurant, 2150 Gold Hill Road in Fort Mill, and follows the shaded Tega Cay walking trails.
The event grew out of #ChooseKind, a campaign her parents started in memory of their daughter, Ashton. According to the race’s registration page, the family has found purpose in sharing her story and asking others to practice kindness in their own lives. Organizers describe the race as a chance to honor her legacy and, in their words, “turn heartbreak into hope.”
Race details
Registration is $35 for the 5K and for a virtual run or walk option, which lets participants complete the distance on their own. Both events list a 9 a.m. start, and registration stays open through race morning, closing at 9 a.m. on Oct. 17. Groups of four or more can select a group discount when signing up.
Registration includes a custom race shirt and a finisher’s medal. The first 150 people to register will also receive a custom tote bag donated by Vibe Pilates, so organizers are encouraging people to sign up early.
Organizers say runners and walkers of all paces are welcome.
After the finish line
Maisie’s Green Brae Restaurant is the presenting sponsor and will provide food after the race. Organizers are asking participants to stay for a free breakfast, live music and gift basket raffles, and to spend time with sponsors and fellow runners. The race page invites volunteers and spectators to join the morning as well.
As of Sept. 22, the race’s online donation page showed $1,260 raised.
How to take part
Registration, volunteer signups, donations and sponsorship information are available at runsignup.com/Race/SC/FortMill/ChooseKind5K. Questions can be sent to organizers through the contact form on the race page.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
