Panthers fans race to build stronger community

Team spirit was on display early Sunday as thousands of Carolina Panthers fans turned out in uptown Charlotte for the OS1st Super Run 4 miler.

The football-themed event, from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m., included a 4-mile run and a 100-yard dash for children. Both started and finished outside Bank of America Stadium, at Mint and Stonewall streets.

The 4 miles for the race are related to four downs in the game of football. Runners dress in Panthers team garb. Down markers were used instead of mile markers. Course officials dressed as referees, and the finish line resembled an end zone. Children got mini footballs.

If you missed the races, you can still join the celebration afterward at a pre-game tailgate party.

The event is presented by Elevation and benefits RunningWorks, a nonprofit that helps vulnerable and socially excluded people gain positive life skills through through running.

This story was originally published February 7, 2016 at 10:49 AM with the headline "Panthers fans race to build stronger community."