At least it’s not in Beaufort. This is like a warm-up to Super Bowl Sunday. So put February 6th on your calendar and mark it with lots of little stars and exclamation points because you don’t want to miss this one. The Chilly Bean 5K & 10K Races and Chili Cook-off is the perfect way to get families together for a little (or a lot) of exercise and then enjoy lunch in the beautiful waterfront setting at the Coosaw Point on Lady’s Island. The sneakers hit the pavement for The Chilly Bean 5K and 10K runs at 10:30 a.m. and the Chili Cook-off starts at 11:30 a.m. with the judging at noon.
Don’t run? That’s fine. You can walk the course or just sit and enjoy the view while you wait for the hordes to return. And then it’s Chili Time! I have been told on good authority there will be adult beverages available and children’s hot dogs etc. for those who find chili not to their liking! New this year, the local amateur cooks who submit a chili entry will be judged by the professionals from the restaurant division of the cook-off.
This wonderful fundraising event is presented by, and supports, the Parents Association of Beaufort Academy. It also raises money for Operation Backpack, a school program from the United Way that helps prepare under-privileged children for the school year by providing necessary materials. You can also bring a donation for Operation Backpack and drop it off at the race site for just a little extra “helping hand” which is always needed.
Founder and current co-chairman Shannon Roberts, with Vivi Verity-Nellen, are heading up this event and for these two, both runners themselves, a crowd of more than 600 is expected. Shannon explains, “We should have between 400-500 runners now that both races are certified by the USATF and Palmetto Running Company is providing the electronic timing for the races.” Vivi added, “Besides being a wonderful location for a run, this is a great warm-up race for the many other certified competitions scheduled this spring. Plus there will be about 300 who come just for the chili!” That would be me.
Plus, the Bull Grapes are performing live during lunch and if the endorsement by these two ladies is anything to go by, they are “Phenomenal!” So gather the gang, bring the neighborhood, rally the family and enjoy a typical Saturday in Beaufort – with a little sweat, great food, and a big cheer for the Tiny Bean (the youngest finisher of the race) and the Old Bean (oldest runner to finish the race). For more information, go to www.chillybeanrun.com.
