Liam Strong Charity Beach Run

WHAT
The Liam Strong Charity Beach Run was created to honor our son, Liam Fredric Batten, who we lost at 6 months of age to childhood cancer. In the short time he was here, Liam inspired every person he touched in more ways than we can put into words. We want to honor Liam and give back to all of the doctors and nurses at North Carolina Children’s Hospital that are so special to our family.
WHEN
Sunday, September 20, 2026
WHERE
Johnnie Mercer's Pier23 E Salisbury StreetWrightsville Beach, NC  28480
PARKING
Parking is available through metered parking (can be paid with CC).
PACKET PICKUPSaturday, September 19, 2026: Flying Machine Oyster Bar* (530 Causeway Drive Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480)
4-6PM
*If you cannot make it to Pre-Race Packet Pickup, we do offer last chance pick-up on Sunday morning. We encourage you to get your packet on Saturday to avoid lines on race morning. 
RACE DAY SCHEDULESunday, September 20, 2026
Johnnie Mercer's Pier23 E Salisbury StreetWrightsville Beach, NC 28480
 
8:00 AM – Last Chance Packet Pick Up (**If you picked-up your packet on Saturday, you do not need to check in race morning, just head to the start line)
CHECK IN WILL END AT 8:50am, after this time, you can register and complete the race but you will not be able to be timed.
8:40 AM – Warm-up provided by ISI Elite Training Wilmington
8:50 AM – LOVE for LIAM – speeches to honor Liam from Bryan and Charlotte Batten, and UNC Children's Hospital. Important announcements will also be made at this time. 
9:05 AM – 5K Starts9:15 AM – 1 Mile Fun Run Starts
10-10:20 AM – Awards
All Race Registration is online.  Please register before arriving at the race.  

AWARDS
Kids 1 Mile Fun RunTop male and female finisher under 18
Top 3 boys and girls – 8 and under; and 9-17
 
5KTop Male and Female Overall Finisher
Top 3 Male and Female Finishers in Age Groups – 19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+