The annual The Carbon Valley Half Marathon, Family & Friends Relay, 5K & Fun Run to benefit Autism research is coming up soon. This event will be taking place Saturday, May 19th, 2018. The race will start and finish at the Firestone Regional Sport Complex located at 6850 Tilbury Ave in Firestone.

The annual half marathon was started by Brenda Ridgley, a local resident and mother, and her brother-in-law in 2012. She saw families around her with children diagnosed with autism and wanted to “give back to the families with autism.”

“I have some good friends who have kids with autism and mine didn’t, so I wanted to give back to them. It’s something that no one really understands, so we wanted to help raise money for research,” Ridgley stated.

The first event was held in 2013 and has been occuring every year since. “We wanted to bring people to our area because I don’t think they know how beautiful it is here,” Ridgley explained.

This year, they hope to raise $23,000, which will put them over the original $100,000 goal they started back in 2013. So far they have raised over $70,000. “Participants are asked to donate &/or raise funds for Autism Research individually or as a team,” says the official website.

There are multiple events to take part in, including the half marathon, 5K, Team Challenge Relay, and a Fun Run. According to the event’s official website, “Runners will tread upon Mining Town history via manicured trail systems, dirt paths & rural roads, bridges & tunnels. The Firestone Trail, Frederick’s gorgeous Milevac Lake & Charming Downtown are some highlights. The entire course has spectacular views of the Rockies and a 2 Mile Downhill FAST FINISH.”

If you aren’t one for running but still wish to contribute in some way, Ridgley encouraged students to volunteer saying, “There’s always volunteer hours I’m willing to sign for.” The event looks for at least 100 volunteers to help set up the venue, run water stands, and help clean up afterwards. There is a link on the Carbon Valley Half Marathon’s website for the volunteer application.

“We always have a wonderful time and it’s a lot of fun,” Ridgley expressed. “So come on down, get a t-shirt, get a goodie bag, and run for a good cause.”

For more information and to register, visit https://cvhalfmarathon.org/