By Tess Malijenovsky
The 4th Annual Beaufort Twilight Run (BTR) and Oyster Roast is just around the corner and promises to be bigger than ever with an estimated 1,800 participants. “Fitness, food and fun” says it all, but it’s also benefiting a good cause.
Friday, March 23, from 4-7 p.m., folks can sign up for late registration and runners can pick-up their race bags with T-shirts early while hanging out at the BTR expo and Habersham Farmer’s Market. (Race packets can also be picked up between 2-5:30 p.m. race day; registration for Kid’s Fun Run and the 5K closes at 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. for the 8K.)

The Beaufort Memorial Hospital mobile unit will be on hand offering a variety of health screenings at low or no cost. And don’t forget the pre-race dinner! Habersham’s own Piace Pizza will be serving a choice of vegetable lasagna or baked penne with Vodka Bolognese for dine-in or carry-out (reservations required at 379-3287).
Also in Habersham, the race takes off March 24. Participants can enjoy running beneath canopies of live oaks and along scenic views of the marsh. They’ll also have their choice of races: the ¼ mile Kid’s Fun Run, the 5K run and fun walk, or “the Lowcountry’s biggest 8K” (begging at 4:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.). Not only is it a nice looking course, but it’s certified by USA Track &amp; Field.
Now, the Beaufort Twilight Run isn’t just a race. Even the folks that opt to take a raincheck on testing out the course can have fun at the post-race Oyster Roast party with food catered by Sea Eagle Market and live music by The Brewer Band. All race participants over the age of 21 with photo ID will receive a coupon for a free beer.
Along with the party at 7:30 p.m. will be the Awards Ceremony, and there are many cash prizes. Chronotrack Timing chip technology will be used so that precise time records can determine who will win the money. The 8K promises $1500 that will be dished out to the top three overall, masters overall, active duty military and hometown hero (Beaufort County resident). Awards will be given to the top three male and female overall winners of the 5K. Also, there are age group awards for both races. The first 300 kids to register and participate in the Fun Run will receive a medal.
And after accomplishing your race and winding down with oysters and live music, don’t forget you did it all benefiting Riverview Charter School. RCS is the first charter school in Beaufort, SC, committed to nurturing the whole child and preparing each student for a global society. Funds raised by the BTR will help provide scholarships, replace school materials, buy new technology and provide ongoing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff.
Race Registrations, Oyster Roast tickets and Kid’s Meal tickets can be purchased online at www.BeaufortTwilightRun.com. Registration discounts are available to active duty military and groups of ten or more. A special Beaufort Country School running club and team discount is also available. Prices go up March 23, so sign up today!