River Region Community Rallies for Unique Run at MGM Airport Annual Runway 5K

Montgomery, AL – The second annual MGM Airport Runway 5K took off on Saturday, October 18^th bringing together runners and aviation enthusiasts for a one-of-a-kind experience. The event, hosted at Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), offered participants the rare opportunity to race down the airport’s main runway, all while raising funds for the River Region United Way.

Nearly 200 participants, ranging from seasoned athletes to casual runners, gathered at sunrise to take part in the event. The atmosphere was electric, with local running clubs, families, and community members showing their support. Runners had the unique chance to see the airport from a different perspective as they dashed across closed taxiways, surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of MGM’s terminal and open skies.

“We were thrilled with the turnout for our first-ever Runway 5K,” said Wade A. Davis, Executive Director of Montgomery Regional Airport. “This event was not only about celebrating aviation and fitness but also about bringing our community together in a fun, engaging way. We are proud to have hosted an event that showcases the airport as more than just a transportation hub.”

The race saw strong competition, with the top overall finisher, Ian Dougherty, crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 16:47. He led the pack from start to finish, showcasing incredible endurance and speed. In the women’s division, Carrie Blanton claimed first place with a time of 19:57. Blanton was also last year’s overall women’s winner.

Participants received a commemorative medal and race shirt, and the top runners in each category were recognized during an awards ceremony following the race. Spectators and runners also enjoyed post-race refreshments and a lively atmosphere that included music, swag from Thompson Rentals, and photo opportunities with the runway as a backdrop.

One of the event’s proudest achievements was raising $5,000 for the River Region United Way. The funds will go toward supporting the organization’s critical work in improving lives and strengthening communities in the Montgomery area.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the participants and sponsors who helped us reach this milestone,” said Brittney Jones-Dabney, Communications and Marketing Manager at MGM. “The success of this event shows the power of community, and we are honored to contribute to such an important cause.”

The MGM Airport Runway 5K would not have been possible without the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and partners, who contributed to the event’s success.

Special thanks go the following sponsors:

• Pilot Sponsor: GMC – Goodwyn Mills Cawood
• Window Seat: WSFA, Wiregrass Construction Company, Thompson Rents CAT The Rental Store
• Early Boarding: Piedmont Airlines, River Bank and Trust, Crosby Electric, The Jones Group, Balch & Bingham, LLP
• Passenger: Valley Bank (Commercial and Government Teams), ASM Route Development, Cadence Insurance, SunSouth John Deere
• Valued Sponsors: Signs Now, Eleven86 Artesian Water, LogoBranders, ScoreHit 94.7/106.9, Cumulus Radio, WLWI, Lamar Billboards, Box Aviation, Hertz Car Rentals, and Gather Round Entertainment.

Plans for the next MGM Airport Runway 5K are already in motion, with hopes of making it an even bigger annual event.

For more information on future events at Montgomery Regional Airport, visit flymgm.com or follow us on social media.