Description

Burke Recovery, providing substance abuse prevention, treatment and recovery support services in Morganton and Burke County, invites all runners and walkers to join us and the fall colors for the third time in the NC foothills on Friday, October 24, 2025. The scenic paved 5K course winds through the beautiful campuses of Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC), the NC School of Science and Math (NCSSM) and the NC School for the Deaf (NCSD) with a backdrop of the South Mountains. All who participated enjoyed our race over the previous two years. 

As this is an evening race (start time is 6:00 p.m.), glow sticks will be provided and the use of headlamps or flashlights is recommended, and in the spirit of a Halloween-themed race, costumes are encouraged and prizes will be awarded to the 3 best costumes as determined by the judges. Post-race refreshments will include the usual plus hot dogs and apple cider. 

A cotton-polyester blend long-sleeve t-shirt or sweatshirt is included in the entry fee. Shirt selections can be guaranteed only for those who register prior to October 8th. 

This chip-timed event is suitable for competitive runners as well as those who wish to enjoy the course at a more leisurely pace.  

Registration

Through October 1, 2024: $30 (adults) and $20 (student 20 & under)

October 2 through Race Day:  $35 (adults) and $25 (student 20 & under)

Student and discounts will be applied automatically at check-out.

Awards

In addition to the Best Costume awards, 5K participants will be eligible for awards in the following categories: Top Overall Male & Female, Top Overall Male & Female Masters (40+) and Top 3 Male & Female in each Age Group: 13 & Under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70 & Over. 

Packet Pickup and Race-Day Registration

Packet pickup and race day registration will be available at Western Piedmont Community College On Friday, October 24, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 5:45pm. We’re sorry, but in order to ensure an on-time start, race day registrations cannot be accepted after 5:45pm.