Laurel Park – “Sometimes, you just want to help,” reflected Erin Bailey, the dynamic force behind the Jump Off Rock Half Marathon & 10k. “I’d be useless at building houses, but I can help build a buzz.” This sentiment encapsulated not only her personal connection to Asheville but also her commitment to harnessing the power of community and creativity in the face of adversity. As the city began to recover from recent storms, Bailey orchestrated an event that celebrated both the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the indomitable spirit of its residents.
From Personal Crisis to Community Catalyst
Bailey’s roots ran deep in Asheville, a place she described as a “small city/big town” filled with love and familiarity. Her connection to the area took on new meaning when a storm struck, severing communication with her parents for 48 hours. “It was terrifying,” she recalled, her voice tinged with emotion. “We were glued to the radio, as power was entirely down and very little news was coming out.” In those harrowing moments, Bailey and her sister became conduits of information, sharing updates with neighbors and friends who were equally anxious about their loved ones.
The aftermath of the storm revealed not just immediate needs but a larger scale of destruction that called for action. “I own a talent and marketing agency,” she explained, “where our work is creating awareness for products and brands—why not use that same model to drive awareness for Asheville?” This epiphany led to the conception of the Jump Off Rock Half Marathon & 10k, an event designed to rally support for the community while showcasing its breathtaking landscapes.
Racing Downhill to Downtown
Set against the stunning backdrop of Jump Off Rock, the half marathon quickly gained a reputation as one of the most picturesque races in the Southeast. “It’s a downhill race that leads straight to downtown Hendersonville,” Bailey enthused. “Runners were captivated by the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the colorful blooms of spring.” The event promised not just a test of endurance but an immersive experience that celebrated the region’s natural beauty.
The 10k race, starting at the Hendersonville Family YMCA, offered a more accessible option for those looking to join in on the fun. “It’s fast and fun,” Bailey said, highlighting the camaraderie that permeated the finish line festivities in Historic Downtown Hendersonville. “We wanted everyone to feel part of this celebration.”
Beyond the thrill of competition, Bailey enlisted various brands to contribute financially to relief efforts in Asheville. “We saw great success and were excited to share that this would be an annual event,” she noted, hinting at a sustainable model for community support through running.
Influencers Amplifying Asheville’s Voice
The impact of the event extended beyond mere participation; it tapped into the power of social media and influencer culture. “We brought nine influencers to Asheville for the weekend,” Bailey shared. The results were staggering: 91 pieces of content created, over 7.8 million views, and 528,000 engagements. “The direct lift in impressions and digital awareness was substantial,” she added, her pride evident. The influencers’ experiences showcased Asheville’s charm and positioned it as a must-visit destination for many.
Bailey’s vision was never about highlighting devastation but rather celebrating resilience. “Most of the talent had never been to North Carolina before,” she recalled. “Our goal was to share the soul and charm Asheville still has.” The influencers embraced this mission wholeheartedly, capturing moments that resonated with audiences far beyond the mountains.
Building a Legacy Through Community
The Jump Off Rock Half Marathon & 10k highlighted Asheville’s community spirit and resilience. Bailey emphasized that people often want to help; they just need an invitation. The race symbolized collective hope as runners traversed the scenic route from Jump Off Rock to downtown Hendersonville, embodying a community united in purpose.
On May 10th, as the sun rose over the Blue Ridge Mountains, participants prepared to celebrate resilience and beauty, carrying with them the stories of those who call Asheville home.