The second annual Sunbury 5K benefiting the American Diabetes Association and Wounded Warriors Project is set to start at 10 a.m. Oct. 8 at the Sunbury Crab Company.
Organized by Sunbury resident and running enthusiast Patrick Boyle, the run offers runners and walkers a scenic course with views of the coast. Participants also will have the opportunity to go through Fort Morris Historic Site, overlooking Saint Catherine’s sound. 
Fort Morris sits on 67 acres and was formerly garrisoned by 200 patriots under the leadership of Col. John McIntosh. The fort fell on January 9, 1779. It once again was used against the British during the War of 1812.  History buffs will find much to contemplate as they complete the route.
“Whether you are an accomplished marathon runner or an individual just beginning a walking program, this is a route you will enjoy,” Boyle said. “The Sunbury area is a lovely rural area with lots of history, beautiful scenery, huge live oak trees, river views and all kind of birds. You won’t be bored for a minute with everything there is to look at. We encourage folks to get out and get moving for two good causes.”
 Proceeds from this timed event will benefit American Diabetes Association and Wounded Warrior Project.
“Last year our run raised more than $3,500 for both charities which was fantastic for our first year, and we are hoping to raise this year,” Boyle said. “We had over 150 runners last year and we want to get as many runners as we can, and there is still time to pre-register by visiting FleetFeetSavannah.com or Active.com.”
The registration fee is $30. Participants that pre-register online are guaranteed a T-shirt. There will be manned rest stops and drinks available along the run route.
The ADA serves the 30,000 people in the community afflicted with this disease with information, patient support, public awareness and funding for research. The American Diabetes Association’s mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
The Wounded Warriors Project provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civilian life.
The Sunbury 5K is being presented by Merritt & Grinstead, Attorneys at Law. Other sponsors include Sunbury Crab Company, Osteen & Osteen, M&M Motors of Hinesville, Coastal Electric, The Heritage Bank, Charles Schwab, Atlantic Foot & Ankle, Mickey Rountree Insurance, Darsey, Black & Associates, Coldwell Banker/Holtzman Realtors: Jimmy and Brigitte Shanken, Fort Morris Historic Site, Dorchester Shooting Preserve, and Sunbury Country Store.
“I’m thrilled about the sponsors that stepped up for us this year,” Boyle said. “Hinesville and Liberty County businesses have just been phenomenal.”
For more information, call Maria Center at 912-353-8110, ext. 3091, or email mcenter@diabetes.org, or call Patrick Boyle at 912-604-6618 or email pcboyle@yahoo.com.