For Immediate Release
Lincolnton, North Carolina: On Saturday, October 17, the Apple Fest 5K came back to Lincolnton. The race had been a beloved tradition in the community, and when it stopped several years ago, runners across Lincoln County missed it. This year, thanks to Rhyne Financial, Grace Vitality & Wellness, Lincolnton Tourism Development Authority, the City of Lincolnton, and Lincolnton High School, United Way of Lincoln County revived it.
With nearly 200 runners, the Apple Fest 5K drew quite a crowd, engaging runners from all over. With race-day coordinators, Haskle Good Jr. and Jody Rhyne, the race started at Lincolnton High School, down Aspen Street and Dixon Street, before connecting to the Marcia H Cloninger Rail Trail and returning to the high school. Runners of all ages joined the race, pushing themselves and embracing the thrill of exercise and wellness. The Apple Fest 5K only became possible from the work and support of over 35 volunteers. From helping with registration and packet pick-up to keeping the runners on the course, our volunteers helped make our first year back into the smooth and fun race it was.
Congratulations to the 2026 Apple Fest 5K winners: Top Male Tyler Powell (17:56), Top Female Adalynn Darling (20:18), Female 1-14 Adalynn Morales (30:16), Female 15-19 Elizabeth Mazingo (28:58), Female 20-29 Keirieonna Wilson (20:19), Female 30-39 Laura Baker (21:51), Female 40-49 Crystal Cowgill (20:46), Female 50-59 Wendy Frye (21:38), Female 60-69 Dana Whitesides (25:39), Female 70-79 Donna Bost (30:13), Female 80-99 Sheryl Bingham (45:16), Male 1-14 Grayson Coon (18:16), Male 15-19 Luke Cerino (18:16), Male 20-29 TJ Parris (18:40), Male 30-39 Eric Hogue (18:26), Male 40-49 Mike Darling (18:44), Male 50-59 Patrick Murphy (19:02), Male 60-69 Jeff Bays (22:06), Male 70-79 Jeffery Hovis (27:09), and Runner with Stroller Anna Goodson (28:08).
A rousing success, the Apple Fest 5K brought in more than $12,000. Those funds will go right back into Lincoln County, supporting critical needs and outreach programs to ensure that all people in Lincoln County have the resources they need to lead thriving, successful lives. From providing tutors in low-income neighborhoods, emergency hardship assistance for families struggling, and much more, proceeds from the Apple Fest 5K will directly support Lincoln County residents. United Way of Lincoln County is grateful and excited to bring back this Lincolnton tradition, and we know that next year will be even better.