Coastal Carolina University's cross-country team will hold its inaugural open 5K trail race at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8. The event is open to the public with registration.

"We are hoping to make this race more inclusive to students and faculty specifically," said Zola Pieterse, Coastal's track and field/cross-country coach. "Some students may not want to compete with the nation's top runners, so we wanted to make sure that there was a separate event for all runners at any level to feel welcome."

This off-road race will be held on the east side of CCU's campus, across U.S. 501 from main campus and near the recreation fields on Century Circle. Through Sept. 6, the entry fee is $20. For those who register the day of the event, there is a $40 race day fee.

The course is certified and consists of both trail and grass paths. There will be awards for participants, and those who register early will receive a T-shirt for the race.

The event is part of the CCU and Carolina Forest High School Cross Country Invitational, and all proceeds will support the Coastal Carolina Track and Field Athletic Foundation. The invitational will be held Sept. 8 at the Hackler Golf Course.

"All the money goes right back to the athletes," said Pieterse. "It helps provide equipment and gear, so it's a really worthwhile cause."

On race day, participants should arrive at 461 Century Circle and park in lot DDD outside the Coastal Science Center.

To register for the race, visit runsignup.com.

Social media:

Twitter: @CoastalTFXC or @GoCCUSports

Facebook: @CCUChanticleers