On March 22, 2025, the tarmac at PTI won’t just be a hub for aircraft—it will transform into a racecourse with a mission. The 16th Annual PTI 5k/10k Run on the Runway, presented by the Lenny Peters Foundation and Bethany Medical, invites runners and walkers of all ages to lace up their sneakers and take on a once-a-year opportunity to race (or stroll) on our active airport runway—all while making a powerful impact in the fight against hunger.
This isn’t your typical road race. With the roar of jet engines in the background and the wide-open expanse of PTI’s airfield underfoot, participants will experience a unique race setting. But more importantly, they’ll be running for a cause that touches thousands of lives across the Piedmont Triad region.
More Than a Race—A Lifeline for Families in Need
Over the past 15 years, the Run on the Runway has raised more than $1 million to support a variety of charities. For the past few years, the Run has been dedicated to hunger relief efforts in the Triad. Last year alone, the event raised over $150,000, and in 2025, organizers aim to push that total beyond $200,000.
Every dollar raised is distributed equally to three key food relief organizations:
- Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC – which distributed 30 million pounds of food in 2023
- Greensboro Urban Ministry – which serves 100,000 households annually
- Open Door Ministries of High Point – which provides 10,000+ meals each month
“Hunger is an issue that affects far too many people in our community, and we are honored to be part of an event that helps put meals on tables,” said Elise Peters Carey, President of the Lenny Peters Foundation. “This is more than a race; it’s a movement that brings together businesses, families, and individuals who care deeply about their neighbors.”
According to Eric Aft, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina, every $1 donated provides up to six meals for someone in need. “The generosity of sponsors and participants allows us to turn race day energy into real, tangible results—feeding children, families, and seniors who struggle with food insecurity across our region.”
Community-Powered, Sponsor-Backed
The Run on the Runway thrives on strong community support, with dozens of sponsors stepping up each year. Leading the charge alongside the Lenny Peters Foundation/Bethany Medical are 2025 Elite sponsors like Vela Agency, PTI Employees through their Employee Challenge, as well as First Class sponsors Association Management Group, Blue Ridge Companies, High Point University, HondaJet, Medi USA, NAI Piedmont Triad, Quality Oil Company, and Samet Construction, among many others.
“Blue Ridge Companies and other organizations from across the Triad are committed to strengthening the communities we serve,” said Chris Dunbar, President & COO of Blue Ridge Companies, as well as Event Chairman for the Run on the Runway. “The Run on the Runway is an opportunity to combine fitness, fun, and philanthropy to create meaningful change for those struggling with hunger.”
With more than 1,500 participants expected, this year’s event includes competitive 10k and 5K races on the certified course, a 5k Walk to Win Against Hunger, and a Kids Dash, ensuring there’s a way for everyone to be involved.
One in five children in the Triad lives in a food-insecure household—a stark reminder of why this event matters.
Registration is still open at PTIRun.com, and those who prefer to support the cause without running can also donate through the website.
Join the Run. Join the Team. Feed the Hungry.
Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, the PTI 5k/10k Run on the Runway is a chance to be part of something bigger—an event where every step brings us closer to a community without hunger.
Sign up today at PTIRun.com and help turn miles into meals.
