• S H O R T S H O R T S •
RACE FOR LOVE
GET READY FOR WRIGHTSVILLE’S HEART-THEMED RUNNING EVENT
By Emory Rakestraw
THE annual Wrightsville Beach Valentine Run returns on Feb. 13 with
pandemic regulations to ensure a happy, healthy race environment for
all. Runners are encouraged to don their best love-themed attire for the
5K or 10K, or the Double Trouble (both races). All take place on a course
composed mostly of the Wrightsville Beach Loop, Pelican Drive and Waynick Boulevard.
Many events in 2020 were canceled or held virtually, but Wrightsville Beach
Recreation Program Supervisor Katie Ryan says the run will take place as scheduled with
appropriate safety protocols in place.
“Runners will begin the race in waves. They will be directed to stay near their vehicles
and away from the start and finish lines until their wave start time,” Ryan says. “Staff and
volunteers will wear masks and conduct temperature checks, the ground will be marked
for social distancing, and participants will be required to wear a face covering until the
20
WBM february 2021
start of their race.”
The mostly flat course, sur-rounded
by waterside views,
is suitable for all running
levels. Strollers are allowed on
the course, but dogs are not.
Proceeds benefit Wrightsville
Beach Parks and Recreation
programs, events and com-munity
activities throughout
the year.
The Wrightsville Beach
Valentine Run offers several
race options to suit all ages
and skill levels. Top left:
Participants can choose to
wear a relationship status
bib on their backs.
COURTESY WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION
WBM FILE PHOTO
COURTESY WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION
SIGNS COURTESY WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION