BURKEMONSTER

ABOUT THE RACE   The “Burkemonster” is a five mile run up one of the highest mountains in the south mountain chain. The summit towers over Morganton and Burke county sporting views of Lake James and Grandfather Mountain. The race begins with a 1.5 mile grind up steep inclines and intimidating switch backs before slightly leveling to a manageable grade. This grade continues for the next 1.5 miles before providing a brief but welcome .75 mile downhill grade.  The final segment  encompasses several of the steepest climbs of the run as you ascend to the “Burkemonster” summit. So don’t be frightened even though this race is not for the faint of heart, come out and support our community with this wonderful worthwhile cause.

This will be a safe and controlled environment. The road is paved and will be closed during the race, with NC State Highway Patrol vehicles providing escort at the front and rear of the race. Shuttle busses, baggage handling, aid and water stations, mile markers, port-a-johns, a registration information table, finish line refreshments, and food will all be available for everyone. Emergency Medical staff will be available at the race if needed. Parking is available at the bottom of the course and spectators may use the shuttle buses.

There is no need to run, just have fun. Bring a friend, neighbor, or family member to walk with as you pass the time. We allow 2 hours for completion of the race. Even though this event climbs a tall mountain, 2 hours is plenty of time to walk and finish the entire course. A shuttle bus will follow the race to pick up runners who discontinue the course, or to collect the participants at the end of the 2 hours time limit.

We prefer on-line registration, but we are accepting race day cash registrations ($30) on the morning of the event. T-shirts will be given out to race day registrants until they run out - you will not be guaranteed a shirt if you register the morning of the event. PLEASE, arrive early between 7:00 and 8:30am to register, receive you racing bib, shirt, and other materials and to drop off your baggage to be taken to the finish line. The race is rain or shine. Prizes will be given to the top 3 male and top 3 female finishers.

Proceeds from this event will be given to two local nonprofits. The Ginger Bread House is a division of South Mountain Children and Family Services of Burke County.  This wonderful organization assists children who are victims of sexual and physical abuse.  Proceeds will also go to the Burke County Pregnancy Care Center. This will be a fun event for all with a chance to help out a great service in our community. Donations are being accepted and are tax deductible. T-shirts will be available and we are taking orders if we run out.

A special thank you to all of our sponsors and to all who have registered and will register for this event. If you are interested in sponsoring please contact us at [email protected].