The Crested Butte News Serving the Gunnison Valley since 1999
Registration and info at elkrun5k.com, proceeds to benefit Living Journeys
By Than Acuff
It’s all lining up for one of the best Elk Run 5k events in the seven-year history of the event with the leaves peaking and the weather forecast looking stellar for race day on Saturday, September 30.
Over its first six years the event has raised $265,000 for Living Journeys, a local nonprofit that provides financial assistance, emotional support and enrichment programs to Gunnison Valley residents affected by cancer.
This year is extra special for two reasons. First of all, this may be the last year for the event so Emma and organizers want to go out with a bang. Secondly, this year is dedicated to Emma’s mother Annie Coburn and all local families affected by cancer.
“I want this year to be a chance to remember and celebrate all of the people Living Journeys has helped throughout the years,” says Emma. “I want this day to be successful and fun because last year my mom was here smiling and dancing. This one is a little more special than previous years.”
The day kicks off with a high school race as 300 high school cross-country runners will be in town to compete, including our very own Titans cross-country team. The girls race starts at 8:30 a.m. with the high school boys starting at 9:20 a.m. at the intersection of Third and Elk in downtown Crested Butte.
The Elk Run 5k then starts at the same place in downtown Crested Butte at 10 a.m. following the same course as always heading through town, out Peanut Lake Road before turning around and coming back to town, down Elk Avenue and finishing at the intersection of Third and Elk. Then, the party starts as ‘80s cover band The Goonies takes over Third and Elk until 3 p.m.
All information and registration for the event can be found at elkrun5k.com.
