Tradition, Legacy, Community
Welcome to the 15th Anniversary of Take the Lake
When we look out across Lake Waccamaw, we see more than just a beautiful lake and scarlet sunsets — we see a community that has spent 15 years proving what it means to be "Columbus County Strong."
Take the Lake started in 2009 (with a break after COVID) with a simple goal to celebrate personal health and honor the endurance traditions of Lee J. Greer and Grant Egley. Today, as we prepare for our 15th anniversary, we are so proud to carry on the vision of our founding organizers:
Grant Egley • Bob Eplee • Frank Gault • Mark Gilchrist • Lee J. Greer • J.B. Lee • Johnny McNeill • Julie Stocks
Events
Take the Lake - 5K Run or Walk 🏃♂️
Take the Lake - 16 Mile - Walk/Run or Ruck 🏃♂️
Take the Lake - 14 Mile - Paddle 🚣
Take the Lake - 16 Mile - Bike 🚲 (Out and Back from Brinkley Park to the Dam)
Take the Lake - 16 Mile - Bike 🚲 and Hike 🥾 (14 mile bike and 2 mile hike through the state park)
Take the Lake - 4 Mile Swim 🏊
Take the Plate
We are kicking off this milestone weekend on Friday night, September 4, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lake Waccamaw Methodist Church. Join us for "Take the Plate," a wonderful community spaghetti dinner where you can also pick up your race packets. Proceeds support the church's community programs, so come hungry and help us launch the festivities!
America 250!
As we celebrate our own milestone this year, we’re also excited to team up with Columbus County and the Columbus County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism to help mark America 250. There’s truly no better place to reflect on the American spirit of perseverance and community than right here at the Lake. From those early days when we first gathered to give a voice to local health challenges to seeing our county climb all the way to 46th in the state rankings, your energy and participation have truly moved the needle for all of us.
We want to give a huge shout-out to the Town of Lake Waccamaw, Lake Waccamaw State Park, our first responders, and the countless volunteers and sponsors, including FullSend Racing, who make this weekend possible. Most of all, we want to thank you for being the heartbeat of this tradition for 15 wonderful years.
Let’s make this our best year yet. See you at the Lake!
— The Take the Lake Steering Committee
Powered by Us
Take the Lake is 100% run by people who love this community. From our local business sponsors, civic organizations, and public services to the dedicated families and individuals who show up year after year, this event is a testament to the spirit of our neighbors. Whether you are a long-time sponsor or a first-time volunteer, your hands and hearts are what have kept us moving for 15 years!
We are especially grateful for our Community Partners—the Town of Lake Waccamaw, Lake Waccamaw State Park, and our dedicated Fire, Police, and Rescue teams. They go above and beyond to keep us safe and supported!
What is a JAMA?
The John A. McNeill Family sponsors the John A. McNeill Award (JAMA) in memory of their father and Take The Lake Founder, Johnny McNeill. In honor of Johnny’s belief in community and personal achievement, every participant who completes their personal challenge receives the JAMA Chip as a reminder that every finish is a victory.
Johnny McNeill celebrated his birthday every September 2nd with a walk around Lake Waccamaw. He kept the tradition until his 90th birthday, when Julie Stocks and State Park Superintendent Toby Hall joined him for the final leg of his 16-mile journey. His spirit of endurance and love for the Lake remain a foundation of Take the Lake.
A Symbol of Victory:
Every swimmer who touches the shore receives the Lee J. Greer Medal, a symbol that you’ve conquered the challenge and joined a century-old tradition.
Lee J. Greer completed the 4-mile crossing 50 times during his life. He established the tradition in the 1940s, and we are proud to carry it forward today.
The "Everyone Wins" Rule:
Our philosophy comes from Lee J. Greer himself: "The swim has never been regarded as a race... often the best efforts are made by those who are younger or less experienced. All who finish are winners."
Contact Form
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Event Location
Elizabeth Brinkley Park
Lake Waccamaw
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450 US
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