Races to look forward to this year in and around Gaston County
Updated: Jul 18, 2022
Mark your calendars and make your plans now to take part in these races taking place in and around Gaston County. Included are a variety of sports and and activities from standard running races, a pump track bike race, scavenger hunt, open swims and more.
FEBRUARY
Frigid Trail Race & Plunge
Brave the cold with 5k and 10k trail race options followed by a plunge into the Deep Water Solo pool. Learn more
Dog Days of Winter
Celebrate winter with your four-legged friends with a variety of activities ranging from a 5K trail race, adoption events, ice rink access, doggy vendors and more.
MARCH
The Whole Enchilada
Todas las millas. Every mile of trail by bike. The Whole Enchilada MTB Race features whole and half options that cover the entirety of the USNWC trail network. Learn more
Raise the Roof 5k
The newest 5K in the area and the FIRST one to be held at beautiful Rankin Lake Park! Help SNCI "raise the roof" on our community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities! Learn more
Color Me Green 5K
Go green with a 5K color run through the trails at USNWC. Leprechaun sightings are always possible. Learn more
APRIL
South Fork Sampler
Participants can choose from 3 different options over 2 days. Each option will task participants to paddle, bike and run to various checkpoints while enjoying the natural beauty and resources along the historic South Fork River. Learn more
The New South Trail Marathon
Full and half marathon options are available on the Whitewater Center’s trail system.
Cherry Blossom 5k
We are excited to get back together and challenge you to run or walk through the rolling hills of Cherryville! Learn more
Belmont Classic 5k
This will be the 18th Annual Belmont Classic 5K taking place this April in Belmont, NC.
Tuck Fest
This multi-day festival celebrates the outdoor lifestyle through competitions, exhibitions, demos, and live music. Learn more
MAY
River Jam Race Series
Make your weekday run off-road in this 5k/10k trail race on the second Thursday of every month from May through September. Learn more
Red Bull World Championship
The Red Bull World Championship qualifying event featuring pumptrack riders from all over the United States competing for a trip to the World Championships. Learn more
O'Crud
This open water swim race offers two distance options. Both start and finish at the Mount Holly Boat Landing. The 2.4-mile 10K distances will both have an in-water, treading start. Learn more
Memorial Day Trail Race
Start Memorial Day weekend with a Saturday morning race through the Whitewater Center’s trail system. Choose from 5 and 8 mile options. Learn more
JUNE
Brew Dash
Complete a 6K or 12K course before rewarding yourself with a post-race craft beer at the Ridge Pavilion. Learn more
Catawba River Races
A series of morning races offers competitors multiple ways to test their skills in water with open water swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or flatwater kayaking. Competitive or Recreational divisions available for each discipline. Learn more
JULY
Mount Holly Mile
The Mt. Holly Mile swim is a one-mile open water race in the Catawba River. The start and finish are at the Mt. Holly Boat Landing. Learn more
OCTOBER
Charlotte Open Water Championship
Don't miss Charlotte's premiere open water swim event! A 2.75-mile downstream race, plus an 800-yard fun swim for beginners. Learn more
Trick or Trail
Lace up your sneakers and get creative on your outfit for a 5K and 1-mile Fun Run on the Sytz Trail at the Warlick Family YMCA. Learn more
Stanley Creek Masacre
Try the annual Stanley Creek Massacre 5k or 10k this year at Harper Park in Stanley, NC.
NOVEMBER
Christmas Town 5k
One of the most popular annual races in the area. This run takes place in one of the world's top destinations for Christmas lights. The lights don't officially begin until December, but our participants receive a sneak peek for one night only! It's a great way to kick off the holiday season. Learn more
