The 17th annual Runway 5K raised its largest amount ever, $65,165, for 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.
Since 2019, the Runway 5K has raised more than $226,000 in scholarship funds and provided a free college education for 20 local students. Of those 20 students, 11 have graduated and/or transferred to a four-year institution.
The scholarships support up to $10,000 per student and are awarded based on their need (cost of tuition/fees is based on class registration less any available financial aid). Recipients also receive a computer stipend of up to $1,200 per student. Any remaining encumbered funds are deployed back into the scholarship and awarded to future new scholars.
More than 1,300 runners and walkers participated in the Runway 5K on Oct. 19. Chris Zuerner, 36, took first place for the men with a finishing time of 15:16. Lana Harwick, 24, was the first-place finisher among women with a time of 18:38. See complete results. The 18th Runway 5K will take place October 2025.
