As Martinsville becomes a more active community, events such as the Great Goblin Gallop are seeing increased participation. Three years ago on a beautiful, sunny day, 58 runners took part in this 5K run.  On Saturday, October 24, 2009, 142 runners and walkers came out in torrential downpours to run and walk around scenic Lake Lanier.

The competitive spirit filled the air as participants talked with each other about last years scores and visited with friends they may only see at this annual event.  Runners were doing stretches and sprints to get warmed up for the 12th annual Great Goblin Gallop.  Some walkers brought their dogs while others brought their friends for this fun event. Even Congressman Perriello joined in the festivities as he climbed out of his car sporting a t-shirt with "Getting Fit in the Fifth" and challenged staff person, Parker Ramsdell to the finish line.

Runners and walkers proudly wore pink ribbons as part of the breast cancer awareness and early prevention campaign. An information booth, hosted by local physician Dr. Eugene Madonia and his medical staff, provided participants with information about early detection of breast cancer. According to Dr. Madonia, his medical staff, local sponsors, individual donors and local runners helped raise $9000 toward breast cancer research and awareness so far this year.