Calling all runners, walkers, and community supporters! The 9th Annual Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race is back on Saturday, March 2, offering a fun and healthy way to give back to worthy causes. This year's event promises something for everyone with 1-mile, 5K and 10K distances, catering to all skill levels.

Proceeds from the race benefit three local ministries: Paul Anderson Youth Home, Vidalia Heritage Academy, and WinShape Camps for Communities. These organizations provide crucial support and opportunities for young people in the Vidalia area, focusing on faith, education and personal growth.

“A substantial part of our program to turn around the lives of troubled teen boys is fitness and exercise. Paul believed ‘a tired boy is a good boy,’ so it’s inspiring to see the community gathering outdoors in the fresh air doing something healthy that benefits our mission,” said Glenda Anderson Leonard, co-founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home. “It’s a great day for Vidalia every year and we appreciate the support from Chick-fil-A, who have been dear friends of Paul Anderson Youth Home for decades.” 

Britt McDade, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A Vidalia, added, “This event brings together the community for a fun and meaningful experience. We're excited to welcome more participants than ever and continue supporting these outstanding organizations.”

The road race offers top-three awards in the different race lengths, male and female categories, and in 16 different age divisions. Two additional awards include the Team Challenge Cup and the Team Speed Award. The Team Challenge Cup is awarded to the team that signs up the most participants wins. Teams can be from a workplace, church, neighborhood or simply a group of friends. The Team Speed Award is included in the 5K race. Based on a minimum of five team runners completing the race, the best combined time for each team wins.

Paul Anderson Youth Home is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. Vidalia Heritage Academy offers a Christian education taught from a biblical worldview, carrying out its mission to educate students to love God “Spiritually, Intellectually, and Physically” and serve Him as Christ’s ambassadors in the world. WinShape Camps for Communities is a professional organization that exists to impact young people through experiences that enhance their Christian faith, character and relationships. 

The Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race is grateful for the support of generous sponsors Zorn & Son Insurance, Shuman Farms, Pineland Telephone Cooperative and Spivey Orthopedic Clinic.

For complete details on the race day schedule and more information, visit the official road race website or the Facebook page.