Even in these sweltering summer temperatures, runners and walkers are in training for the 11th Annual Ache Around the Lake Run/Walk—a benefit for St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation set for Saturday, Sept. 17, at 8 a.m. at Lake Lanier. Ache Around the Lake is a community event that includes The Ache (8K or five miles) or The Ouch (a two-mile fun run). The Ache and the Ouch are open to all runners, walkers, strollers and your canine friends on a leash!

The Ache has become known as one of the ‘biggest little races’ on the racing circuit, boasting gorgeous mountain lake views, moderate weather, and a challenging USAT&F-certified course. Local elites, power walkers, and weekend racers enjoy this challenging race in the Carolina Foothills each fall.

This year, your support of this event will benefit the Discretionary Fund at St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation. This fund enables the Foundation to exercise discretionary spending when evaluating and purchasing small equipment items, facilitating required equipment repairs, or accommodating other unplanned expenses that develop during the course of the hospital’s fiscal year.

There is a registration cost for each race. There is a Family Rate with a minimum of three people registering at once. This option is great for large families, groups of friends or businesses. T-shirts will go to the first 200 registered participants.

Registration is open. Visit achearoundthelake.org to register or learn more.

– article submitted by Jennifer Wilson