About Us

Originating in 2005 by Lake Lure residents Doug Long and Bob Keith, the Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad (HNGO) is an annual family sports festival for athletes of all ages and skill levels.

More than 25 competitive land and water events are staged around Rutherford County with medals being awarded by age

and best times.

Headquartered in Lake Lure, NC, the HNG Olympiad is a 501-c3 non-profit, tax-exempt organization whose purpose is to host and coordinate the annual Olympiad. It is a charitable event with net proceeds going to selected non-profit organizations primarily in Rutherford County.

Since 2005, the event has contributed more than $84,000 to community service groups. This financial success is due in large measure to the generous sponsorships by businesses and individuals.

A volunteer Board of Governors holds ultimate responsibility for organizing, promoting and conducting the event. It takes more than a year of planning and more than 200 volunteers to carry out the multi-day event.

With each passing year, the HNG Olympiad is expected to continue to grow into one of the largest and unique family sports festivals in the Carolinas

Evolution of the HNG Olympiad From just a dream that evolved over a cup of coffee a few years ago, the HNG Olympiad has quickly grown from a five-town community festival to a countywide celebration that draws athletes and spectators from around the country. In it’s most succinct description, it is a wonderful example of the human spirit at play. Our sincere thanks and appreciation go out to our athletes, sponsors and volunteers for making the Olympiad what it has become. The number of event registrations almost tripled over 2005. The triathlon attracted athletes from 10 states. Since the first event back in 2005, the Olympiad has given back $84,000 in net charitable contributions. With each passing year, it will take you, the sponsor, volunteer and athlete to help make the Olympiad Western, North Carolina’s premier sports festival.