The Bethel Hill Moonlight Boogie

Boogie History

The Bethel Hill Moonlight Boogie was a night-time 50-mile road race in rural Richmond County, NC. The event began in 1995 as a “Runner From Hell” event hosted by “The Mangum Track Club." Doug Dawkins was the founder and Race Director for all of its 30 years. The first 3 “Boogie” races were staged by the by the side of the road from the back of a pick-up truck and consisted of 3 seventeen-mile loops. Participation was low and finishing numbers even lower. Eventually the event found a better headquarters at Bethel Baptist Church and the course changed to 5 ten-mile loops. In 2004 a marathon version was added for runners who only wanted to do a “fun run.” The race was held in June and always hot and humid. Because of heat, humidity, the difficulties of a night-time race, and the hilly course, the drop out was always high-around 40%. Only a few “raced”. Most participants opted to make their only goal a finish. Every year was a big challenge, yet many chose to come back many times for that challenge. The waiver all entrants had to agree to shows the character of the event best.

WAIVER AND RELEASE:

I realize June in North Carolina is hot and humid. Most people and doctors advise against running in heat and humidity. Also, running at night presents special problems such as seeing where you are stepping and watching out for cars. I understand that this area has specific hazards such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, polecats, wildcats, and rednecks who like to drink and drive and throw things. I know that 50 miles is a long, long ways and many people get tired just driving that far. Nevertheless, I want, no, I insist I be allowed to do this event regardless of the risk. Therefore, I want everyone to know that I am not being forced to do this event and that I understand and agree in consideration of being permitted to participate that me (the participant), my heirs, personal representatives or assigns of me do hereby release, waive, discharge and covenant not to sue the Race Director, any and all event directors or coordinators, Bethel Baptist Church or any of its members, or any and all event volunteers from any and all liability from any and all claims arising from my participation in the Bethel Hill Moonlight Boogie. I assume all responsibilities for my participation in this event and certify that I am properly trained, mentally fit, and medically able to participate in this 50 mile run. I agree to use a light after dark. I certify that I am 18 yrs old or older. I will not litter. I will not kill snakes or harm any wildlife other than mosquitoes or biting flies. I am aware that the number of entrants in this event is limited and that registration may close abruptly at the race director's discretion. I realize that the race director's {or his delegate's} authority is all encompassing and will abide by any rules or changes to rules he makes either before or during the event. Knowing everything in this waiver has not deterred me from entering this event and my signature below indicates that I have read this waiver and agree to comply with all of the conditions herein. I also promise to have fun.

Boogie Video
2019

by Dan Paige

Gallery