The sound of sneakers pounding pavement mixed with laughter, cheers, and even a few tears as more than 125 runners laced up for the 1st annual Living the Dream 5K in Mooresville on Sept. 20. But this year, every step carried a greater weight.

The race honored the late Ben Watson, the legendary Mooresville High School wrestling coach and a pioneer of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in the Lake Norman area.

Watson, who passed away last October after a courageous battle with cancer, left behind more than state titles and Hall of Fame plaques. He left behind a legacy of faith, mentorship, and love that continues to ripple across schools and families throughout the region.

“Coach didn’t just coach wrestling — he coached life,” said Lake Norman FCA Area Director, Jeramy Smith. “He was a

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