FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

February 18, 2025 

Kristen Brabble, 252-822-2265

Run, Climb, Conquer: Popular Obstacle Course, Tackle The Tar, Returns on May 17, 2025 

Tackle the Tar has donated $600,000 for college scholarships since 2016.

Rocky Mount, N.C. - The Rocky Mount Rotary Club is pleased to announce the return of Tackle The Tar, a 5K obstacle course, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex. The event is expected to bring over 800 runners from 60 N.C. cities and many other states. Tackle The Tar raises scholarship funds to send students residing in Nash and Edgecombe counties to attend one of the three local colleges - Nash Community College, Edgecombe Community College, and N.C. Wesleyan University. 

“I am incredibly proud to announce the 8th Annual Tackle the Tar 5K Obstacle Course Race, an event that is not just about competition, but about community. This race is a testament to the power of collaboration, as it brings together our dedicated sponsors, volunteers, and participants in support of an impactful cause. The funds raised will provide vital scholarships that empower local students to pursue higher education and create new opportunities within our Twin County community,” said Kristen Brabble, Chief Operating Officer at First Carolina Bank and founder and chair for the event. 

Tackle The Tar runners will encounter over 20 different obstacles complete with several mud pits before crossing the finish line. There are 10 heats including heats for kids, first responders, competitive runners, fun runners, and college students. Heats begin at 8:45am at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex and course through historic Battle Park. Racers will receive a T-shirt, medal, one beer (if over 21), and goodie bag. 

Brabble added, “At Rocky Mount Rotary, we believe in the principle of ‘Service Above Self’ and, through Tackle The Tar, we are not just investing in education, we are investing in the future of our community. Each dollar raised helps to build stronger local economies and fosters growth for our youth, ensuring that they are well-prepared to lead us into tomorrow.”

Local runners, volunteers, and sponsors have a unique opportunity to come together for an unforgettable event. Runners can lace up and take on the course, while volunteers play a vital role in coordinating and assisting throughout the day. Sponsors provide essential financial and community backing, ensuring the event's success. Join us in making a meaningful impact—every step, helping hand, and contribution counts! 

A special thanks to our Host Sponsors: City of Rocky Mount and Nash County Tourism Development Authority; Event Sponsors: Carrolton Facility Management, Cummins, First Carolina Bank, and Life 103.1; Tar River Sponsors: APG Rocky Mount Telegram, BrightSpeed, Bob 93.3 & WRNS 95.1, Davenport Autopark, Edgecombe Community College, Joe and Helen Galligan, Hotline Express, Nash Community College, North Carolina Wesleyan University, Providence Bank, and Wealth Management Strategies. 

For more information about Tackle The Tar, please visit www.tacklethetar.com. For more information on the Rocky Mount Rotary, please visit https://www.facebook.com/RockyMountRotaryClub6122/.