Off the Beaten Path

For the second time in less than two years, local runners are going to be able race through the serene Caw Caw Interpretive Center nature and cultural preserve.
On Saturday, April 27, the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) will host its second-ever “Where the Wild Things Run” 5k race at the center. But instead of taking to the road, runners and harriers will be able to hash it out on the off-road trails surrounding the 654-acre Ravenel site.
The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the center, and an awards ceremony and snacks and drinks will follow the race. Anyone over the age of 10 is more than welcome, but not dogs.
CCPRC publicity coordinator Sarah Reynolds said that the “Wild Run” is slated to become part of a multi-race series the PRC is putting together. Other parks will host equally different events, like a Memorial Day “Run to Remember” on May 23 at the commission’s Mt. Pleasant facility.
Another race, held in March at Mullet Hall on Johns Island gave runners an on-road option between 5- and 10-mile courses.
The last time the PRC put on the race it was in the fall of 2011, and it came a few short days after another county race. As such, it only pulled in 34 runners. Already, Reynolds said that more than 70 runners had signed up for the Caw Caw event, making it a sure success.
Anyone who signed up before Saturday, April 20 is guaranteed a shirt. Late registration will be available the morning of the race between 6-8 a.m. Registration is $34, but county residents get a discount and only have to pay $28.
 
Caw Caw Interpretive Center is located at 5200 Savannah Hwy. Online registration will be available through the night before the race at www.ccprc.com.