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Charleston Celebrates Life with 10th Annual Doughnut Dash 5k

Participants enjoying the Doughnut Dash 5k in Charleston.

News Summary

The 10th Annual #Race4Wanza Doughnut Dash 5k in Charleston, S.C., drew over 400 participants, celebrating the life of Tywanza Sanders. This community-focused event highlighted love, resilience, and togetherness, transforming tragedy into joy and promising a bright future with plans for a commemorative billboard. It showcased the community’s unity as participants embraced a shared mission of remembrance and celebration.

Charleston Races for a Cause – A Sweet Tribute to Tywanza Sanders

Early Saturday morning, Charleston, S.C. came alive with the 10th Annual #Race4Wanza Doughnut Dash 5k, a heartwarming event paying tribute to the life of Tywanza Sanders. This community-driven race captures both the spirit of competition and the joy of remembrance, uniting over 400 participants under the banner of hope and celebration. The atmosphere was thick with camaraderie, as runners and walkers donned their sneakers, ready for a day full of fun, friendship, and a few doughnuts too!

A Life Remembered

Tywanza Sanders, whose life was tragically cut short during the Mother Emanuel AME Church massacre in 2015, is the heart and soul of this event. Being the youngest victim of such a devastating incident, his legacy continues to inspire not only those who knew him but also countless others in the community. The race serves as a powerful reminder of how love can triumph over hate, as participants came together to honor Tywanza’s life while creating a new tradition that celebrates joy.

From Tragedy to Triumph

Dominique Gray, one of the race organizers and a close friend of Tywanza, emphasized the event’s true purpose. The focus is not solely on racing or indulging in sweet treats but rather on transforming tragedy into triumph. This celebration sheds light on the beauty and strength of the Charleston community that stands united even in the face of adversity. The energy in the air was contagious, with smiles, laughter, and a shared sense of purpose among all who gathered to run.

Plans for the Future

With such a successful turnout, organizers are already looking to future events. There are plans for a billboard featuring Tywanza’s image, poised to overlook the city of Charleston. This forthcoming symbol of love and remembrance will serve as a beacon, reminding all who see it of the positive impact that individuals can have when they unite for a common cause. The race may be rooted in the past, but it’s taking strides towards a bright future.

A Community Victory

Rashaad Lennon, another driving force behind the race, described Tywanza as possessing an infectious spirit that continues to resonate within the community. The event feels less like a somber remembrance and more like a celebration of life—a victory for everyone involved. The overwhelming turnout, the bright smiles, and the cheers shared throughout the morning are all testaments to the love that can flourish amid difficult times.

More than a Race

While doughnuts are undoubtedly a highlight of the dash, the event transcends the simple act of racing. It’s about coming together, connecting with one another, and supporting a cause that goes beyond personal achievement. Every stride taken on that cool morning was filled with purpose, as participants basked in the warmth of community spirit. Friends, families, and even strangers pushed themselves to the finish line, celebrating not just with health and fitness, but also with a shared mission of love and remembrance.

Conclusion

As the sun rose over Charleston and the race concluded, participants carried with them not just the thrill of competition, but also the sweet essence of community and remembrance. The 10th Annual #Race4Wanza Doughnut Dash 5k was more than just a race; it was a vibrant celebration of life, a testament to resilience, and an affirmation that love can indeed conquer all. Here’s to many more years of running in honor of a cherished life and building a legacy that reminds us all to savor every moment.