SALISBURY — The oldest 8K in the state is just part of the excitement on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 26,  at Catawba College. The 8K and 5K races will use chip timing, and participants will be able to get finishing times and places immediately. All finishers will have access to a finish-line video.

More of the  latest in race technology will be used for race day as well.  Live GPS phone tracking of the race will be available for participants and spectators via the optional RaceJoy app. RaceJoy allows 8K and 5K runners and spectators to keep up with where the runners are on the course. Runners and walkers must enable the app and run with their phones.

Registration continues at www.runsignup.com or by visiting salisburyrowanrunners.org. Race day registration will take place from noon to 2 pm at the Catawba College Goodman Gymnasium. Special commemorative hoodies, designed by Meredith Abramson, will go to all 8K and 5K participants.

There is no charge for the half-mile fun run, open to anyone again this year, and all finishers get a medal. Refreshments will follow all races and awards will be given starting at about 3:30pm. Approximately 100 volunteers will work all the races. All races will finish on the track inside Shuford Stadium. Timing will be provided by Agape Timing from Concord.

All Winter Flight proceeds benefit Rowan Helping Ministries. The 2019 Winter Flight race earned $12,000 for these families and individuals, and the Salisbury Rowan Runners hope to exceed that amount this year! The 8K distance is for runners while both runners and walkers are welcomed to take part in the 5K and half mile fun run. The 5K and 8K both start at 2pm, following the fun run that starts at 1:30pm. Neal Wilkinson will again provide the National Anthem before the historic start.

Participants and the community are also invited to join the festivities for a pre-race meal, Saturday, January 25, at 6:00 p.m. at City Park Recreation Center (316 Lake Drive, Salisbury, NC  28145).  The race-winning meal of pasta, bread, salad, and deserts will be catered by Debbie Suggs.  The dinner is free for Salisbury Rowan Runners members with others at a nominal charge.  Non-race participants and spectators are welcome as well  Along with Salisbury Rowan Runners annual meeting festivities, late registration and packet pickup will be available.

Matthew Weaver will provide entertainment while Rebecca Parker, fresh from a sizzling running career at West Rowan High School and Georgia Southern University, will be this year’s keynote speaker. She will address her highlights and successes along the way, with some humorous moments included. In addition to title sponsor New Sarum Brewing Company, more than 30 other local sponsors are supporting the event.

For more information, call 704-310-6741.