Since starting in 2016, the 5k that’s proud to say it’s the only race across the New River Gorge Bridge has seen an increasing number of participants of all ages and abilities. Active SWV’s Bridge Day 5k provides a supportive atmosphere, scenic course, and opportunity to give back to the community as the proceeds from the race go directly into helping fund Active SWV’s Kids Run Club program at elementary schools across Raleigh, Summers, Nicholas, and Fayette counties. You can read more about racer info and registration for Active SWV’s Bridge Day 5k here.
Bridge Day 5k Youth Essay Contest
In an effort to make the race more accessible to youth participants, Active SWV is doing a Bridge Day 5k Youth Essay Contest! Four youth winners will each receive 2 free entries to the race, so that each winner can share their Bridge Day 5k experience with a friend or family member.
Youth Essay Contest Rules and Requirements:
Youth under the age of 18 may submit a 250 word maximum essay to be eligible to win two free entries into the Active SWV Bridge Day 5K 2018. Essays should answer two questions:
- What motivates you to be physically active?
- Why do you want to participate in the Bridge Day 5k?
Essays will be selected based on the following criteria:
- Addresses barriers and challenges to staying active
- Highlights the importance of physical activity programs in the community
Essays should be submitted, along with 3 active photos, to [email protected] with subject line “Essay Contest; ActiveSWV Bridge Day 5K.” Written essays can be mailed to: ActiveSWV 116 North Heber Street Suite B Beckley WV 25801.
Deadline: Essays should be emailed or postmarked by October 13th and winners will be announced as they are received. Four winners will be selected. Each winner will receive 2 free entries, allowing a friend or family member to join the winner in the race!
Race Details & Registration
*By submitting your essay, you agree to Active Southern West Virginia’s use of your name, essay and photos for promotional material.*
Essay Contest Winner #1: Chase Ayers
We are excited to announce that the first winner of the 2018 Active SWV Bridge Day 5k Youth Essay contest is Chase Ayers!
“My name is Chase Ayers. I am 10 years old. I ran my first 5k when I was six years old. I am motivated to be physically active because it is fun. I like to run and jump on my trampoline most.
It’s challenging to stay active when it’s cold outside. I like running outside better than the treadmill. I get to see more outside. Physical activity programs in the community are important to help people to stay healthy. It also lets you do stuff with your friends.
I want to run the Active SWV Bridge Day 5k race because I ran it last year. It was a lot of fun to be on the bridge. If I win this contest, I want to give my extra ticket to my mom. I almost beat my brother at last years race, and I did beat my dad. It doesn’t matter if you win, just so you get across the finish line.”
Congratulations, Chase – see you on the bridge!
