Cramerton Goat Island Games continues to be a success during the summer

A sunny Saturday set the perfect setting for the annual Goat Island Games in Cramerton.

"The idea for these type of activities is to get people to come out and experience the outdoor lifestyle," said Rachel Andrea, special events and programs supervisor at Cramerton Parks and Recreation.

The day began at 7 a.m. with activities such as fishing, yoga, disc golf a 5k and a new activity this year called the "5-miler."

"We are actually giving the opportunity to people to run or walk for five miles instead of three around Cramerton. It has a good response," said Andrea.

In the afternoon, live music, food and beer, served as a form of entertainment for the adults as they made their rounds through the various other activities available for kids, such as flower pot painting.

"It has been a lot of fun. I definitely enjoyed the yoga and beer," said Gastonia resident Amie Hoy.

Hoy attended the event with her husband. They both participated in the 5k and made sure to take advantage of everything they possibly could as this was their first time assisting the games.

"We are originally from Pennsylvania, but moved here three years ago for work. I am a biologist and my husband is a geologist, so we are thankful to Cramerton Parks and Recreation for putting this on," said Hoy.

"It is nice to know that there are still people out there who care about the environment," she added.

Not only are the Goat Island Games a way to get the community to come together, but it's also a big fundraiser.

"We only charged for the kayaking and mountain biking. All proceeds we made from the kayaking will go toward the Catawba River Keeper and the money from mountain biking will go toward Belmont's Rocky Branch Park," said Andrea.

Cramerton Parks and Recreation chose Rocky Branch Park as this year's benefactor, in support of the Tarheel Trailblazers and the new advanced zone at the park.

"I think we raised thousands of dollars. I have not counted the money yet, but I think we may have raised more than we ever had," said Andrea.

Last year, the games were hosted in August due to issues involving the pandemic. This year, organizers were able to host it again in May as they believe the weather is at best during the month for families to enjoy the festivities.

"It was hot in August, like really hot. We are glad to be back to where we usually are and we just want to keep encouraging people to come out and enjoy natural resources," said Andrea.

Beatriz Guerrero can be reached at 704-869-1828 or on Twitter@BeatrizGue_.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Cramerton Goat Island Games continues to be a summer success