Brandon English 5K Trail Run Returns to Boling Park This Fall

The annual trail run at Boling Park honors a local legacy while raising scholarship funds for Cherokee County students pursuing careers in health and wellness.

A Trail Run That Gives Back to Canton Kids

Every September, runners and walkers gather along the Etowah River at Boling Park for more than just a 5K. The Brandon English Memorial Trail Run combines the beauty of one of Canton's favorite riverside parks with a mission that touches the lives of Cherokee County students year after year.

The event honors Brandon English and funds a scholarship in his name for students pursuing careers in physical education, health, and wellness. In 2024, the scholarship was awarded to Addie English, Brandon's daughter, who planned to attend Samford University to study exercise science. It's a fitting tribute that turns personal loss into opportunity for the next generation.

The Setting: Boling Park's Scenic Trails

Boling Park sits at 1200 Marietta Highway, tucked along the Etowah River on 20 acres leased by the City of Canton from the Army Corps of Engineers. The park features a flat, scenic one-mile gravel walking trail that's become a favorite training spot for the Cherokee High School Warriors cross country team and local fitness enthusiasts alike.

The "5K-ish" course takes advantage of the park's riverside location and wooded trails, making it accessible for runners of all abilities—whether you're chasing a personal record or simply looking for a family-friendly walk in a beautiful setting. If you've been curious about what your home is worth in Canton's growing market, events like this are a reminder of the parks and community spirit that make this area so appealing.

What to Expect at the Run

The event typically kicks off in the early evening, offering a cool riverside start time. Along with the main trail run, past editions have included live music, food trucks, and a kids' fun run—turning the event into a true community gathering rather than just a race.

Registration fees go directly toward Building Fires, the Canton-based nonprofit behind the event. Building Fires invests in Cherokee County youth through scholarships, mentorship programs, and their Varsity Jacket initiative, which recognizes student-athlete achievement. The organization has presented scholarships to multiple Cherokee County graduating seniors, with awards reaching $2,500 for deserving students.

More Than a Run

What sets this event apart is its local roots and clear mission. Every registration dollar stays right here in Cherokee County, building up kids who will become the next generation of educators, coaches, and health professionals. It's the kind of community investment that strengthens Canton from the inside out.

For runners looking for more local inspiration and insights into what makes Canton special, the Canton blog offers a deeper look at the people, places, and events that define life here. And if you're exploring Canton as a potential place to call home, knowing that neighbors show up for causes like this tells you something important about the community you're joining.

Whether you're a serious runner training along Boling Park's trails or someone who simply wants to support a great cause while enjoying a beautiful September evening by the river, events like the Brandon English Memorial Trail Run are a reminder of what makes Canton feel like home. If you've been thinking about finding your place in a community that values connection, purpose, and looking out for the next generation, I'd love to help you discover your dream home right here in Canton—reach out anytime to start that conversation.

Kate Valor is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty Partners, serving buyers and sellers throughout Canton and Cherokee County, Georgia.