The 29th Annual Publix Hilton Head Firecracker 5000, which took place Friday, July 4, turned out to be one of the most successful Lowcountry charity events so far this summer. As many know, the Firecracker 5000 is not only one of the most highly anticipated races, it is also Beaufort County’s largest and oldest road race, and one of the top 10 in the state of South Carolina. The 2014 edition, sponsored by Subaru of Hilton Head (http://www.subaruofhiltonhead.com/ cities/subaru-dealers-hilton-head-island/), brought in 1,500 runners and walkers of all ages to benefit a number of important local charities.

“We’re so thrilled to be able to once again support our local runners and charities,” said Warner Peacock, President and CEO of New River Auto Mall.

The starting line for this year’s Firecracker 5000 was behind Jarvis Creek Park on Hilton Head Island. The course ran along the Cross Island Parkway, Hwy. 278, Jarvis Park Road, Nature's Way, Pembroke Drive, Hatton Place, and Lafayette Place, finishing at the main entrance to Jarvis Creek Park.

The festive Post-Race Party and 4th of July celebration took place immediately after the race. Among the many events and activities included were a children’s fun run, live music, many exhibitors and vendors, fresh fruit, ice cold refreshments, door prizes, and a craft beer garden.

The 29th Annual Publix Hilton Head Firecracker 5000 netted approximately $3,5000to benefit a variety of Lowcountry charities, including the Hilton Head Rotary Club, the Hilton Head Runners Club, the Bluffton High School Cross Country Team, and the Hilton Head High School Cross Country Team.

The event was, by all accounts, a memorable and fun-filled way to enjoy Independence Day with friends and family while helping out some worthy local groups that are actively assisting young athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

Proud sponsor Subaru of Hilton Head wishes to thank all of those who participated in the race, joined in the festivities afterward, and showed their community spirit in supporting local clubs and high school cross country teams. It was the people of the Lowcountry who made the 2014 Firecracker 5000 such a terrific success.