The 2020 edition of the Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC) Foundation Race for Education 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run will take place virtually, just as many events will amid a global pandemic to ensure the safety of participants. 

The 11th Annual Race for Education benefitting Adult Education Initiatives will take place over the week of September 7-12, 2020, in celebration of National Literacy Month. The race moves from its traditional post-Labor Day Saturday to accommodate a new and exciting virtual format.

With its longstanding race organizers, Milestone Race Authority, the Foundation has organized a professional and virtual format using ItsYourRace.com, an online race management software. The format allows runners to compete on their own time and course, and share those times across event and social platforms. 

The new format for the Race for Education allows runners from all over the state and nation to participate, something the Foundation is eager to share.

“A virtual race means that more runners can participate,” said Mary Katherine Borland, the CGTC Foundation’s advancement coordinator, “and increasing our numbers means more ways we can support our Adult Education programs.”

“We often hear people say, my family would love to run, but they live out of town. Well, that barrier is gone this year and we welcome everyone’s participation.”

Upon registration for the Race, participants decide their own course and locations. Runners submit times during race week to ItsYourRace.com. Runners will be able to share their best race moments with CGTC’s social media accounts using the hashtag #MyRace4Education or by tagging the College on its Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. 

CGTC’s vice president for Adult Education, Brenda Brown, says she is excited about what a new, virtual race will mean for participation and the programs she oversees. 

“The funds raised through this effort are critical to the success of our students,” Brown said. “We are able to provide scholarships, supportive services, incentives, books, and materials to ensure that our students can persist in our program.” 

The cost is $20 each for the 5k and Fun Run and includes a race t-shirt. Registration for the race is now open at raceforeducation5k.itsyourrace.com.

Race t-shirts for non-runners are also on sale for $20, including shipping. Local t-shirt pickup will be available on the Warner Robins and Macon campuses at a date to be announced to purchasers. To order a t-shirt contact the Foundation directly.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available to businesses and industries looking to support a worthy cause.

For more information, please call (478) 757-3503 or email foundation@centralgatech.edu.