Pebble Hill Plantation celebrates 40 years with Quail Trail 5K
Oct. 22—THOMASVILLE- Pebble Hill Plantation celebrated its 40th year of being open to the public this past weekend by bringing back a favorite outdoor event for running enthusiasts: the Quail Trail 5K.
One of many events that will be hosted this year to commemorate the anniversary, the Quail Trail 5K has not been held since 2011. The trail boasts a scenic run through the old barn and gravel pathways scattered throughout the plantation.
Runners and walkers alike were overjoyed to be able to take in a glimpse of the scenery while partaking in the event on Saturday morning, with more than 190 participants showing up for the event, including runners from New York, Texas and South Carolina.
"We are just excited and overwhelmed we had this much of a response," said Communications Coordinator Kim McCray. "We are just very happy that people want to come out and spend their Saturdays with us a Pebble Hill."
The course was certified by USA Track and Field and served as one of the many qualifying runs for individuals who hope to eventually race in a larger marathon.
Overall, Matthew Mizereck took home the men's 1st place with a time of 16:24. Alison Wells followed up shortly after, clocking in a time of 20:19, taking home women's first place overall.
Kevin Etheridge was the Men's 40+ winner with a time of 20:41, while Ruffian Tyner claimed the Women's 40+ winner title, with a time of 24:19.
Winners were given beautiful, glass-like, engraved trophies to display.
McCray hopes these individuals, along with all of the other runners from Saturday will consider coming to their additional 40th anniversary celebrations, including a special guided tour with the curator from the National Sporting Library Museum on November 3rd.
"It's limited to only 10 people," she said. "That's how exclusive it is."
The fun will continue on November 30th, when Pebble Hill hosts its wreath workshop, followed by the Youth Floral Design Workshop on December 2nd.
They will then begin hosting champagne evening tours at the Main House. On December 14-15th, Pebble Hill will offer "Behind the Ropes" tours with curator Lori Curtis.
"Those will be really special because they will go to places that aren't normally open to the public," McCray explained.
The month of December will culminate the Nutcracker Tea and a new Pastel Workshop, which McCray is excited to share later details on.
McCray said she knows without participation in events like the Quail Trail 5K and the events to come later this year, being open 40 years would not be possible.
"We thank the community and the region for allowing us to be here 40 years," she concluded. "By participating in programs like this and touring the Main House, you're supporting Pebble Hill."
