A 5K race honoring a teenager killed by a drunk driver will wind through Tega Cay's shaded walking trails on Saturday, Oct. 17.
The Choose Kind 5K starts at 9 a.m. at Maisie's Green Brae Restaurant, 2150 Gold Hill Road in Tega Cay. The race is held in memory of Ashton, who was killed one week before her 16th birthday, according to the Tega Cay Sun.
Ashton's family launched the #ChooseKind campaign in her memory. On the race's registration page, the family said they have found purpose in sharing Ashton's story and encouraging others to practice kindness. Organizers described the event as a chance to turn heartbreak into hope through small acts of kindness.
Registration costs $35 and covers both the in-person race and a virtual run or walk option. Groups of four or more can select a group discount. Registration stays open through race morning, closing when the gun goes off.
Every registrant receives a custom race shirt and a finisher's medal. The first 150 people to sign up also get a custom tote bag donated by Vibe Pilates, a Fort Mill studio at 757 Stockbridge Drive near the corner of Highway 160 and Gold Hill Road in Stockbridge Commons.
Maisie's Green Brae is the presenting sponsor. Christine and Karl Schaefer own the restaurant, which occupies a building that has been part of Tega Cay since 1977. After the race, Maisie's will host a free breakfast, live music and gift basket raffles on site.
Volunteers and spectators are welcome.
As of Tuesday, Sept. 22, the race's online donation page showed $1,260 raised. Registration, volunteer signups, donations and sponsorship details are available at runsignup.com/Race/SC/FortMill/ChooseKind5K.
Upcoming community events
- Saturday, Oct. 17: Choose Kind 5K, 9 a.m., Maisie's Green Brae, 2150 Gold Hill Road, Tega Cay
- Thursday, Oct. 29: U.S. Marine Band free concert, Clover
