Local News

Monarch Strong hosts 4th annual Bike-Run-Walk Challenge

Posted

Monarch Strong Corporation (MSC) brought the Manning community together once again on Saturday, October 12, for the 4th Annual Bike-Run-Walk Challenge. Participants began checking in at 8 a.m., eager to take part in this year’s event, themed “Let’s Move for Health and Wellness.”

The event, which promotes physical fitness, health, and wellness while raising funds for college scholarships, saw participants of all ages—from 3 months to over 70 years—gather at J.C. Britton Park. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., attendees set aside their electronic devices and chose their challenges: cycling, running, or walking.

Cyclists embarked on a 26-mile ride to Randolph Landing at Santee’s 3rd Water, while runners and walkers took to the park’s track. Among the standout participants was MSC Gold medalist Frances C. Dingle, who walked 5 miles, and Silver medalist Elma Blackwell, who completed 3 miles. Sarah C. Pearson participated in obstacle courses and games, adding to the variety of activities.

Two weeks before the event, Mrs. Jones’s Montessori class at Manning Early Childhood Center won the MSC drawing contest, sponsored by HopeHealth, by creatively answering, “What Do You Do to Stay Healthy?” The class received free entry to the event, along with MSC swag bags and HopeHealth goodies.

Event sponsors included Chick-fil-A, TA Center, JK’s Barbeque, Doc’s Delight, Ultimate Gamers, and POP’s. The Clarendon County Sheriff’s Department, with Sgt. Latisha Geter and Jasmine Snell, secured the park and escorted road cyclists. Volunteers included past MSC scholarship recipients Timothy Goldsmith and Parah Anderson, who lent their support to the event.

The day was filled with smiles, laughter, and plenty of movement—whether through dancing, singing, jumping, or horseback riding. For those who couldn’t attend, photos from the event capture the joy and energy of the day.

Since 2022, MSC has awarded 15 scholarships to deserving Manning High School seniors, and they continue to raise funds for future scholarships. For those interested in contributing, tax-deductible donations can be made at https://monarchstrong.com/msdonations/.

Monarch Strong remains committed to making educational dreams come true while promoting health and wellness in the community.