CAROLINA BEACH – In what has become one of the most popular, locally-driven St. Patrick’s Day traditions over the last decade, the 13th Annual Steve Haydu Lo Tide Run is set for Saturday, March 18.
All proceeds from registration fees, sponsors and individual donors are distributed to local cancer victims in financial need. From the inaugural running in March 2005-present, some 2,000 participants line the streets of Carolina Beach each year for what is now a time honored observance in memory of Steve Haydu.
Carolina Beach is a tight knit community and following Haydu’s passing in May 2005 from cancer, the St. Patrick’s Day Lo-Tide Run was named in his honor. Since, then, approximately $500,000 has been raised in the battle against cancer.
“The race has grown so much over the years,” said Shalee Wilcox, President of St. Patrick’s Day Lo Tide Run. “We started with about 350 participants in 2005. The community loves this event and we couldn’t do it without the help of each and every one of our supporters.”
Registration for the 5K/10K race is $40 at www.lotiderun.org, or you can register at Omega Sports on Oleander Drive in Wilmington on Friday, March 17. The course takes participants through Carolina Beach and to the finish line on the beach.
“The money always goes to New Hanover County residents battling cancer, we have many applicants,” Wilcox added. “We have also given funds to local charities in the area that also help people with cancer, such as Hope Abounds.”
Because of the event’s success, the volunteer board for the Lo Tide Run has been able to keep enough money on hand year round to help those fighting cancer. The board has assisted nine individual recipients since last year’s race to help provide aid and financial support.
“The money we give people is intended to give them a breath of fresh air when they are struggling not only with their disease, but the financial burden that comes with it,” said Wilcox.
