Thousands of runners and enthusiasts converged at the Bojangles Boplex in Charlotte for the pre-race exposition of the eagerly anticipated 'Around the Crown' event. This gathering served as a vital hub for participants to finalize their preparations, collect essential gear, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere ahead of the main race day.
Thousands Converge for Charlotte's 'Around the Crown' Race Expo
On Friday, September 4, 2026, the Bojangles Boplex in east Charlotte welcomed thousands of excited participants for the 'Around the Crown' expo. This bustling event, organized by WSOC and extensively covered by reporter Hunter Sáenz, acted as the primary preparatory venue for the annual Charlotte race. Attendees eagerly queued to pick up their race bibs, commemorative T-shirts, and various promotional giveaways, all in anticipation of Sunday's big run.
Organizers meticulously set up stations equipped with ice packs, cooling fans, and hydration resources, underscoring their commitment to runner safety and well-being, especially given the expected heat on race day. A cherished tradition, runners inscribed their names and messages on a large banner, which will soon be suspended over Interstate 277, offering encouragement to all participants as they traverse beneath it during the competition.
Among the crowd was Cadence Szilagwy, a first-time racer who, spurred by a spontaneous decision, joined the event. Expressing her relaxed approach to the challenge, Szilagwy shared, "The stakes are low, we kind of just want to have fun!" Adding to her excitement, she unexpectedly won a new pair of running shoes during her bib pickup, a stroke of luck she described as "completely random!"
Beyond individual aspirations, the expo also spotlighted community involvement. The "Active Dad" organization, a group dedicated to fostering connections between fathers and their daughters through running, was notably present. Dequan Hill, an "Active Dad" member and a three-year veteran of the 'Around the Crown' race, emphasized the group's significance: "It's just like our own kind of therapy and community for dads." He lauded the event as "hands down the most energetic race in Charlotte." Mike Norman-Robinson, another member, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the profound social bonds formed, stating, "It's like bringing everybody together, meeting people through other dads and stuff like that; it's amazing, it's so fun." True to their ethos, "Active Dad" members are set to complete the course alongside their daughters once again this year.
Bib pickup and gear distribution continued on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bojangles Boplex, ensuring all last-minute participants were accommodated. Channel Nine is slated to broadcast the race live on Sunday, commencing at 7 a.m., with the elite runners scheduled to begin their ascent at 7:30 a.m.
This year's 'Around the Crown' expo truly exemplified the spirit of community and personal endeavor that defines long-distance running. It's inspiring to witness how events like these not only promote physical activity but also cultivate strong social ties and create unforgettable experiences for both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. The shared journey, from preparing at the expo to crossing the finish line, becomes a powerful testament to collective support and individual triumph.
