More than 2,600 participants and spectators from over 20 states are anticipated at the 8th Annual Beaufort Twilight Run (BTR) presented by Habersham Properties on Saturday, March 19 in the Habersham Marketplace with races and festivities from 3:30-9:30 p.m. The BTR’s mission is to host a fun, competitive and memorable annual event for Beaufort. In the past seven years, the BTR has raised more than $350,000 to benefit Riverview Charter School – a free public school open to Beaufort County K-8th grade students. This year’s goal is to raise more than $70,000 to be used for the School’s technology, after-school and physical education programs.

The USATF-sanctioned running festival offers more race options than any other event in the Lowcountry

– drawing both competitive runners and recreational participants alike. In addition to the BTR’s traditional 8K Run, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ Fun Run, three new races have been added this year to enhance options for runners at all levels: a 1 Mile Youth Run, a 10 Mile Run and a bigger and better 13.1 Mile Beaufort Challenge (10 Mile + 5K Runs). This makes the BTR one of two events in South Carolina offering a 10 miler as well as providing a full half-marathon distance in Beaufort.

“As the BTR gets bigger it just keeps getting better,” said Evy Trask, Event Director for the BTR. “As a runner myself, I appreciate an event that is well organized with clearly marked courses and has a fun after party with great food and music.”

This family-friendly event is a draw not only for participants in the six races, but for spectators who are looking for an evening with live music and great food. This year the BTR welcomes the band Broke Locals who are from Beaufort and specialize in “Southern Fried Funk.” Throughout the afternoon and evening, a variety of delicious food and beverage options will be available from Habersham Marketplace restaurants, as well as over a dozen gourmet food trucks from all over the Lowcountry.

To celebrate the 8th Anniversary, the BTR’s total cash purse has increased to more than $6,000. Payouts will be awarded in the 13.1 Mile Beaufort Challenge, 10 Mile Run, 8K Run and 5K Run. Categories include the three overall male and female winners of each of those races, as well as for the top male and female Masters (40+), Active Duty Military and Hometown Hero (a Beaufort County resident). In addition to cash prizes, age group winners will receive a local photograph for their accomplishment.

For online details about race registration and more visit www.BeaufortTwilightRun.com. Early registration discounts are available for all participants, as well as additional discounts for students, groups of ten or more and active duty military. Note: Rates go up March 1.