History of the Race
Perhaps the Knights of Columbus is best known locally for its sponsorship of the annual Turkey Day Run. This race is approximately 100 years old. It was first sponsored by Council No. 704 in 1914. This race has undergone various format changes throughout its history. The race was, at one time, run from Charleston to Summerville. It was later changed to a relay race. In 1950, its format was modified to be a competitive relay race among local high school track teams. These three mile, six man, relay races were held at the Battery and at Stoney Field, until they were discontinued following the 1972 race.
In 1978, Council 704 reinvented the race in its current form which encompasses a 3.1 mile run and walk - the Gobble Wobble. It is a competitive race open to all serious and family-oriented participants. The event annually attracts 5,000 participants from 35 states, Canada and Mexico who run and/or walk. It is truly established as a premiere running 5K event in South Carolina.
The Turkey Day Run and Gobble Wobble received an aweard from the Charleston Metro Sports Council in February 2008. The race is recognized for being a Lowcountry Thanksgiving tradition for the past 30 years.
History of the Knights of Columbus
and Rev. P.N. Lynch Council 704
The Knights of Columbus was established in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney. It is a worldwide Catholic men's organization. The main focus of the Knights of Columbus is charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.
The Knights of Columbus, Rev. P.N. Lynch Council No. 704, was established in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1902. In 2002, this Council celebrated its 100th anniversary. The initial membership roll contained 55 members. The first Grand Knight was Francis B. Moran, and the first Chaplain was the Very Rev. James Budds. In 1906, the Council began construction of its current Hall on Calhoun Street. Construction was completed in 1910. It is the oldest council in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Council 704 has been, and continues to be, active in fulfilling the mission outlined above in providing college scholarships to local students, contributing to the Our Lady of Mercy Outreach on Johns Island, Operation Hope, and various other charitable programs.
Today the Council lists more than 400 men on its rolls and stands ready to continue the work and example set by its members in the Council's first 100 years.
Ever following its great principles of CHARITY, UNITY, FRATERNITY AND PATRIOTISM, the Knights of Columbus Rev. P.N. Lynch Council 704 looks forward to the years ahead with renewed vigor and inspiration
