As everyone basks in the crisp, cooler breezes that come with the end of September, runners are tightening their shoe laces for the annual Ache Around the Lake Run/Walk — a benefit for St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation set for Saturday, Sept. 21 at 8 a.m. at Lake Lanier.

Ache Around the Lake is a community event that includes The Ache (8K or 5 miles) or The Ouch (a two-mile fun run).

The Ache was founded as a charity foot race in 2006 by two area runners — Scarlette Tapp and Katie Malone. The founders lived and often ran at Lake Lanier, the site of this annual, 8K, USAT&F-certified race and the accompanying Ouch fun walk.

The Ache has become known as one of the ‘biggest little races’ in the Upstate South Carolina and western North Carolina racing circuit — boasting mountain lake views, moderate weather and a challenging USAT&F-certified course.

The Ache 8K course starts on Butter Street, sloping downhill. It then crosses over the dam and up a short, steep hill referred to by local athletes as the “Grunt Hill.” The run follows the lake in a counter-clockwise direction; winding around 5 miles of continuous lake road.

This 4.97-mile certified course has many inclines and switchbacks. The last half-mile is relatively flat. Scenic views of this hidden mountain lake are visible throughout much of the race. The Ache is a challenging course for runners.

The Ouch 2-mile course starts with the Ache on Butter Street. After coming down the first hill and onto Lake Shore Drive together, the Ouch participants split from the Ache racers by staying straight on East Lakeshore Drive.

Ouch participants enjoy a very flat first half mile where they will be rewarded with beautiful views.

After a short gradual hill, they bear left and continue to climb. Their ascent is followed by a quick right back onto Butter Street and a descent to Lanier Drive.

This year, participation in the Ache Around the Lake or Ouch race will support the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) lab at St. Luke’s Hospital in Columbus and the goal is to raise $30,000 to help cover the costs of the simulated kitchen, tub, shower, curb and vehicle, as well as support other projects throughout the ADL Lab.

Activities of daily living are the self-care activities an individual usually performs in his or her home or common outdoor environments.

Visit www.achearoundthelake.org to register or learn more.