5K, 10K and half marathon hoping to bring more tourism to New Bern for inaugural event

Craven County Tourism Development Authority's Sports and Events Committee is trying to pinpoint tourism opportunities during slow seasons and will have its first event to do so this upcoming Veterans Day weekend.

The committee will host the first-ever Trail to Tryon event weekend beginning November 12-15.

The three-day event will include a half marathon, 10K, and 5K races. Each race offers in-person and virtual options to participate. Runners will have four hours to complete the race.

There will be no race day bib or packet pick-up. Packet pick-up will be held from noon to 8 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Union Point Park. Virtual participants can have their packets mailed.

Registration fees are $75 for the half marathon, $60 for 10K and $40 for 5K.

A portion of race proceeds will go to the local American Legion Post 539, which provides life-changing assistance and guidance for veterans, military personnel, and their families year-round.

A celebration will be held at Bates Common at the N.C. History Center, located at 529 S. Front St.

Melissa Riggle, executive director of the Craven County Tourism Development Authority, said she hopes the event will bring visitors to the area from in and out of state.

All races will begin in front of Tryon Palace located at 610 Pollock Street in downtown New Bern and routes will carry races through scenic downtown, waterfront parks and residential neighborhoods.

Maps are available for the 5K, 10K and half marathon route by visiting runsignup.com.

Last year, the Craven County Tourism Development Authority engaged a group of various members of the community to form the Sports and Events Committee.

This working committee was tasked with identifying opportunities for sports-leisure events in Craven County. After reviewing the calendar to identify the slower season for tourism, the committee decided on Veteran’s Day weekend as the ideal time for local merchants, hotels, and restaurants, as well as visitors potentially planning a long weekend getaway.

“We are pleased to have this event coming together," said Dan Roberts, board chairman of the Craven County Tourism Development Authority. "The Sports and Events committee has provided invaluable insights throughout the planning process. We hope that Trail to Tryon will be a new experience for visitors and community members to enjoy for years to come," he added, according to a press release.

For more information about the race or volunteering for the event, visit their website or call 252-637-9400.

This article originally appeared on Sun Journal: Trail to Tryon will bring runners to New Bern Veterans Day weekend