Honor Abe 5k

Subject: Join Us for the Annual Abraham Balawi Memorial 5K - Honoring a Legacy

We are excited to invite you to participate in the Annual Abraham Balawi Memorial 5K on June 20th, an event that holds special significance for our community. This race, started in 2018, was created to support the Abraham Balawi Memorial Scholarship Fund. The annual scholarships are awarded to at least two deserving Pickens County seniors, chosen by the Awards Committee, to continue Abe’s legacy of excellence, dedication, and perseverance.

About the Event: This 5K race is not just about running—it's about honoring the memory of an extraordinary individual. Abraham “Abe” Balawi, a gifted athlete and student, was tragically taken from us on August 6, 2017, in a car accident. A 2015 graduate of Liberty High School, Abe won the AA State 1600m race in 2014 and went on to run at Mercer University. He was recently awarded a posthumous degree for his achievements. This race helps us keep Abe’s spirit alive through the scholarship fund and annually during the Pickens County Cross Country and  Track  & Field Meets. The Pickens County Track & Field Meet also hosts the Abraham Balawi Mile Run, which was renamed in his honor. 

Why You Should Participate:

Support Local Students: The funds raised from the 5K go directly to the Abraham Balawi Memorial Scholarship, which has allowed us to award local student scholarships since 2017.
Honoring Abe’s Memory: This race is a tribute to Abe’s incredible impact on our community and to remember his legacy as a dedicated runner and student-athlete.
Community Impact: The event also helps fund awards, medals, and t-shirts for local runners. It also supports the Pickens County Cross Country and Track & Field Meet, supporting local XC, track and field athletes.
Past Scholarship Recipients Include:

Keyshawn King (Stanford)
Adam Balawi (Citadel)
Cal Finley (Clemson)
Ally Wilson (USC)
Eric Baldwin (Clemson)
Will Herden (USC)
Hannah Brown (Duke)
Issac Esuary (Clemson)
Ella Harned (Southern Wesleyan) 
Noah King (Clemson)
Ashby Williams (Appalachian State)

2026 Winners: Acie Vincent (Clemson), Brayden Bagwell (Yale), Reid Finely (West Point)

Event Details:

Date: June 20th
Time: 8:00 am
Location: Liberty High School (Hosted by Liberty High School)
This is a walk/run 5K event that’s open to the public, and we encourage runners of all levels to join us. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or simply want to show your support for a great cause, we welcome you to participate.

How to Register: To sign up, please visit the link on this website. 

Your participation helps ensure we continue to provide scholarships and honor Abe’s legacy. Together, we can make this year’s race a meaningful celebration of his life and contributions.

If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out. We hope to see you there, running or walking in Abe’s honor.

Best regards,
Shannon Balawi          
Abe’s Mom