The A Cool 5 Race weekend is a compilation of events that began in the summer of 2008 on Beech Mountain. For 2011 the A Cool 5 Race weekend will encompass a series of events that are sure to please avid runners, family’s interested in a group recreation experience, and those of the general community wishing to support a wonderful cause.

Pre-Race Festivities

The A Cool 5 Race weekend will kickoff on Friday, June 10th, 2011 with a pre-race community pasta dinner featuring a world renowned guest motivational speaker, Molly Barker, Founder of Girls on the Run and an elite endurance athlete, as well as music, games and activities for the family, and pre-race registration and packet pickup. Best of all, the pasta dinner and pre-race festivities are only $6.00! In years past the pasta dinner event has featured racers, family members, and supporters from the local community with participation levels far exceeding 200 guests, so be sure to secure your spot early.

Race Day Events

Race Weekend festivities continue on Saturday morning with the Fourth Annual A Cool 5 Race. This year the race will again feature a 1.5 mile fun run/walk and the A Cool 5 mile race presented by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System. The course for each event is set above 5000ft. in elevation with 360 degree views of the majestic mountains such as Grandfather, Mount Mitchell, and Snake Mountain. Typically the weather rarely exceeds 70 degrees and the skies part leaving bright, beautiful blue skies for race day. Race entry for the 5 miler and 1.5 mile fun run/walk is $30.00. Pre-registered racers are guaranteed a race t-shirt, and a post-race meal voucher, but many more swag items are in the works, so stay tuned to www.acool5.com for regular updates. For those of you 21 and over, you will also receive 2 free adult beverages upon finishing one of the A Cool 5 races. Race Day registration will be available; however, race t-shirts and other swag items will be given out on a first come, first serve basis and sizes may be limited. Be sure to register early to get your race T and swag!

Note: Running Strollers are allowed on the entire race course. Dogs will be allowed for the 1.5 mile fun run/walk event. There will be doggy watering holes and "doggy bags" along the way as well!

Post Race Events and Awards

Following the race events we will hold post race festivities and an awards show. The post race festivities include live music, great food, games and activities for family members, and an age group awards show for race day participants. The top male and female finisher will be recognized and receive awards for their accomplishments. Age group awards and prizes will also be given out to the top male and female in the following age group categories:

Under 13

13-17

18-25

26-30

31-35

36-40

41-50

51-60

61-70

70 and above

After the post race festivities, many participants find themselves drawn to Beech Mountain’s many hiking trails, streams, water falls, or sport recreation outlets like the golf course and Buckeye Recreation Center for the remainder of the weekend. For more information on Beech Mountain, NC ammenities, please visit the Beech Mountain Links and Ammenities section of our Website. Here you will find lodging and dining discounts, recreational opportunities, and area attractions.