On Saturday, October 4th, 2025, runners, walkers, and even skaters gathered in Hernando for the annual Noah’s Gift 5k. This event started at 8:00 A.M. at 180 West Commerce Street, right in the heart of downtown Hernando. Skaters took off at 7:55 A.M., followed by runners and walkers a few minutes later.
The Noah’s Gift 5K is more than just a race; it’s a community event created to honor the life of Noah Costa, a 16-year-old whose adventurous and giving spirit inspired many. After his passing, his family and friends started Noah’s Gift, a program that offers grants to teens who want to experience something meaningful, like traveling, learning new skills, or taking on big adventures.
According to the Noah’s Gift Foundation website, “the goal is to encourage teenagers to live life to the fullest, just as Noah did.”
Each year, money raised from race entries, donations, and sponsorships goes towards these teen grants. The foundation works under the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, ensuring that every dollar supports real opportunities for young people.
This year’s event is open to everyone, from serious runners to families, school teams, and casual walkers. There’s even a virtual race option for people who can’t make it to Hernando but still want to participate from wherever they are. Participants who join virtually can record and submit their race times online by the end of the race day.
Awards are handed out for the fastest finishers in several categories, including overall female and male age groups, and special awards for the youngest and oldest racers. There’s also a unique “winged wheels” award for skaters who finish with top times.
For many people, the event is less about competition and more about the community. After the race, participants are invited to stay for music, food, and games hosted on the lawn of the Maddox Foundation. it’s a moment for everyone to come together to celebrate life, friendship, and the positive impact of giving back. The Noah’s gift 5K has became a Hernando tradition that blends fitness, fun an purpose. Every step, stride, or skate taken on October 4th helps fund another teenager’s dream, keeping Noah’s legacy alive.
As the foundation site says, “we believe in encouraging teenagers to do extraordinary things.”
Thats what the race is all about turning tragedy into inspirations and building something for future generations. Beyond the race itself, the event has also become a symbol of unity and remembrance.
Over the years, the race has grown into more than a community run; its become a heartfelt reminder of how one person’s life can continue to touch each other long after they’re gone. Local families, schools, and businesses rally around this causes every fall, decorating downtown Hernando in broght colors and uplifting signs that reflect Noah’s fearless spirit. The race is about showing up for something that is bigger than yourself and celebrating the bonds that hold people together. Each laugh shared, every mile crossed and every volunteer helping echoes the same message : kindness and connection never fade.
In a small town like Hernando, that message hits home. The Noah’s Gift isnt just a race on the calender its a legacy in motion, proving that love, once rooted in a community, stays inseparable thats everlasting.
