The 15th Runway 5K raised $38,810 for CLT’s Airport Opportunity Scholarships at Central Piedmont Community College. The scholarships were created in 2018 to help promote careers in aviation as well as economic opportunities in Charlotte.
Over the past five years, eight students from Charlotte high schools have received more than $126,000 in scholarships.
“Hosting the annual Runway 5K, which provides an occasion to run and walk around the airfield, is a highlight of our work,” said Stuart Hair, director of Commercial and Community Engagement. “The money raised through the event furthers our commitment to providing opportunities for the community.”
Each scholarship recipient participates in CPCC’s six-week Summer Bridge program, designed to help teens transition from high school to college. Students are assigned academic advisors who help guide them throughout their classes. The scholarship covers their tuition, books, and provides internship opportunities.
The 2022 Runway 5K on Oct. 22 drew 1,241 registered participants. The unique, flat course took place entirely on the airfield with two miles of a runway and with a close-up look at aircraft landing and taking off.
The men’s and women’s winners were Christopher Zuerner with a time of 15:27 and Sara Diaz who crossed the finish line in 19:18. Both Charlotte residents received American Airlines flight certificates. The 16th Runway 5K will take place in October 2023.