THE ISLAND PACKET
By Matt McCombs
Online Article Here

After a two-year residence at Jarvis Creek Park, the Hilton Head Firecracker 5K Run, scheduled for 8 a.m. Saturday, will return to Shelter Cove Community Park and the Shelter Cove Town Center.

The race, oldest road race in Beaufort County, was moved during the revitalization project at Shelter Cove Towne Centre.

"Everything is new about (the course)," Bear Foot Sports event coordinator Mark Weisner said. "It will be fun, but there will be some challenges."

Weisner, who will have taken part in 20 of the 30 races, said he expects between 12,000 and 13,000 runners and walkers to take part.

"It's not a record crowd, but it's still substantial," he said.

Citing a favorable weather forecast, Weisner didn't believe the recent high temperatures would adversely affect the race.

"The weather forecast is favorable for Saturday morning," Weisner said "Seventy is the low Friday night, perfect for running Saturday morning. Fourth of July, we'll have great weather with a nice breeze off the Broad Creek."

A percentage of proceeds from the race will benefit several local charities including Hilton Head Rotary Club and the Hilton Head Island High School cross country team.

Sponsors include Hargray, Island Car Wash, Hilton Head Hospital, Orthopedics Associates of the Lowcountry, Savannah Hilton Head International, Cera Sport, Palmetto Running Company, Natalie's Juice Company, Orange Leaf and New York City Pizza.

Runners can still register for the Hilton Head Firecracker Run online through midnight Thursday night at www.bearfootsports.com.

Late registration is available from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at Palmetto Running Company at Shelter Town Center or from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at Shelter Cove Park.

The Kids Run costs $30, while the Adult Run is $35. The races cost an additional $5 if you register on Saturday morning.

Details: Call 843-757-8520 or visit www.bearfootsports.com.