Archived Outdoors

Running for a reason

Running for a reason

An upcoming attempt at the 70-mile Georgia Death Race could mean a boost in assistance for Southwestern Community College students who find themselves in need of financial help. 

Matt Kirby, college liaison for the Jackson County Early College, will be competing in the race March 31, covering nearly 28,000 feet of elevation change in the process. In the meantime, he’s working to raise sponsorships for the race, with all the proceeds going to the SCC Student Emergency Fund. 

“The Georgia Death Race is absolutely crazy. It is probably one of the toughest trail races on the East Coast,” said Kirby. “Hopefully the insanity of it will attract some attention and help raise some money for SCC’s Student Emergency Fund.” 

An avid runner, Kirby founded the Plott Balsam Runners group and The Sole Destroyers, an after-school running group at SCC. 

The Student Emergency Fund exists to help students with crisis-type emergencies, last year awarding 18 students more than $4,000. Kirby hopes to raise $5,000 in race sponsorships. 

Follow Kirby’s training progress at @KirbyRunsLong. Sponsor him while donating to the SCC Student Emergency Fund at www.southwesterncc.edu/Foundation. Kathy Posey, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.339.4227.

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