Lander’s Moonshine Run Raises Awareness of Substance Abuse

GREENWOOD, S.C. — An enthusiastic group of runners and walkers braved fall-like temperatures and 20 mph winds to run Lander University’s 11^th Annual Moonshine Run Monday evening, March 18. Since its inception in 2013, the event has aimed to raise awareness about substance abuse while promoting healthier lifestyles.

Lander’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards was one of the sponsors for this year’s event. Assistant Director Aryn Gilstrap remarked, “this is the eleventh year for the 5K Fun Run or Walk. We have a lot of volunteers, student leaders, and lots of people walking and running today.  We are happy with the good turnout.”

After registering, participants were given a card that was stamped at each booth with information on substance abuse and available services. The card was then turned in to receive a Moonshine Run t-shirt.

Over 50 participants turned out for the untimed race that traversed through the Lander campus including Amaya Childers, a sophomore nursing major from Blacksburg, South Carolina. Childers, who is also a resident assistant for the Office of Housing and Residence Life, had the opportunity to either work the event as volunteer or participate as a runner. “I thought it would be fun, so I decided to run,” she said.

Aaron King, head coach for Lander’s Track & Field program, rode ahead of the runners on his bike with his Welsh Corgi, Kora, riding in his backpack.  Several of his track and cross-country team members were participating in the 5K, so King encouraged them to simply jog and enjoy the race.

Zack Lang, a sophomore exercise science major from Corona, California is a member of the track and cross-country team. Lang has run many races in his career, but this was his first Moonshine Run. “I enjoy running and thought this would be an opportunity to get out and run,” he said.

For more on student life and activities at Lander University, visit our website our Lander’s website at www.lander.edu/studentaffairs

CUTLINE:  Lander University’s 11^th Annual Moonshine Run was held Monday evening, March 18.  The 5K Fun Run and Walk is held each year to bring awareness to substance abuse and to promote a healthy lifestyle. (Photo by Katelynn Green)

CUTLINE: Aaron King, head coach for Lander’s Track & Field program, rode ahead of the runners on his bike with his Welsh Corgi, Kora, riding in his backpack at the 11^th Annual Moonshine Run held March 18 at Lander University. (Photo by Katelynn Green)