Sweet Success at the South Carolina Strawberry Sprint & Stroll 5K
The air was filled with the sweet scent of spring and the buzz of excitement on Saturday, April 26th, 2025, as runners and walkers gathered in Fort Mill’s historic downtown for the annual South Carolina Strawberry Sprint & Stroll 5K. The event, a highlight of the South Carolina Strawberry Festival, brought together 876 participants of all ages and abilities for a morning of spirited competition and community celebration.
The race, known for its festive atmosphere and the delicious post-race strawberries, saw a fantastic turnout. Participants laced up their running shoes, eager to tackle the 3.1-mile course. The scenic route, winding through charming neighborhoods, provided a delightful backdrop for the morning’s endeavors. The course culminated in a festive Runner’s Village, where local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment added to the celebratory atmosphere.
As the starting gun fired, a wave of energy surged through the crowd. Seasoned runners pushed the pace at the front, while families and casual participants enjoyed a more leisurely stroll. The cheers of supporters and the vibrant energy of the event created a motivating environment for everyone involved.
Overall Winners Showcase Speed and Stamina
Matthew Tina of Oradell, NJ, was the overall male winner, crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of 16:11.8. Kaylie Dziedzina of Cary, NC, claimed the overall female title with a time of 19:21.7.
Local Talent Shines: Fort Mill and Tega Cay Age Group Champions
The Strawberry Sprint & Stroll also celebrated the achievements of runners within specific age groups, highlighting the talent within the local communities of Fort Mill and Tega Cay.
Fort Mill Age Group Winners:
- Male 15-19: Landry MacDonald (18:06.0)
- Female 15-19: Sara Davis (20:40.2)
- Male 20-29: Evan Mason (20:28.3)
- Male 30-39: Matthew Harrington (20:02.8)
- Female 30-39: Casey Cline (20:20.5)
- Male 40-49: Nathan Furlow (19:27.1)
- Male 50-59: Bobby Woodson (25:42.5)
- Male 60-69: John Marotta (24:30.3)
- Female 70+: Patricia Lynch (32:11.6)
Tega Cay Age Group Winners:
- Female 1-14: Haley Krasinski (21:48.5)
- Female 40-49: Heather Doheny (24:05.8)
- Male 70+: Ray Haile (28:17.2)
These local victories underscore the active and health-conscious spirit of the Fort Mill and Tega Cay communities. The dedication and hard work of these age group champions are truly commendable.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the South Carolina Strawberry Sprint & Stroll 5K was a resounding success in fostering community engagement and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The fun run provided an opportunity for younger participants to get involved, and the post-race celebration, complete with fresh strawberries and refreshments, created a festive atmosphere for all.
The organizers of the event are to be applauded for putting together another memorable race. The smooth organization, enthusiastic volunteers, and the beautiful setting all contributed to a positive experience for everyone involved. The South Carolina Strawberry Sprint & Stroll 5K continues to be a highlight on the local running calendar, and participants are already looking forward to next year’s event.
