Folsom Blues Half Marathon

Folsom Blues Breakout is proud to announce its partnership with Runnin' for Rhett (R4R), a local non profit based in Elk Grove, CA. A brief R4R description is below, but learn much more on the R4R website, sign up for one of the organization's Folsom Blues Breakout Half Marathon Training Programs, or simply consider making a donation to help fund the R4R very worthwhile programs. Additional information about making a donation can be found here.

R4R was founded in 2007 by Rhett Seevers' parents, Beth and Randy. Their couragous child Rhett, afflicted with severe cerebral palsy, had passed away in 2005 at the tender age of 7. Beth subsequently discovered running and was inspired by the the many mental and physical benefits she gained from her training and racing goals. She and Randy outreached to friends and neighbors, who in turn joined them; organized adult and youth groups began running and training for events, inspired by Beth and Randy's message.

As described on the R4R website:

"In Rhett’s short life, he inspired many people with his infectious smile and will to live, but with his challenges, he could not walk, run or jump - no matter how hard he tried. After Rhett’s death, Beth and Randy dedicated their memory of Rhett to utilizing FITNESS and MOVING to help others - do what Rhett wanted to do so badly but couldn’t.

Our mission is to LET RHETT’S STORY INSPIRE those who feel defeated, UPLIFT those who feel down and ENCOURAGE ALL TO take that first step, like Beth did in the spring of 2005, and MOVE INTO LIFE."

Youth fitness is a big part of their fund raising efforts, and the R4R Youth Fitness Program raises more than $60,000 each year to fund grants awarded to Sacramento-area schools for after-school running programs.

The Folsom Blues Breakout encourages and supports healthy outdoor activities for our youth of all ages. There are two ways that the Folsom Blues Breakout events benefit this mission.

Folsom Blues Kids Breakaway 1K

• We offer this FREE fun run, the Kids Breakaway 1K, held on race morning, all in the spirit of fitness and fun!
• The 1 kilometer distance is just over a half mile (0.6 mi.), a perfect distance to hold the children's interest and yet give them a sense of accomplishment.
• The loop course is allows great viewing for cheering spectators.
• The younger children may be accompanied by an adult.
• To help them show off their accomplishment to their friends and family:
  • Each entrant receives a very cool race logo t-shirt.
  • Each finisher receives a special ribbon.
• Learn more on the Kids Breakaway 1K event page.

Willow Hill Cross Country Course

• Race management donates time and resources to maintain and improve the Willow Hill Cross Country Course at Folsom High School.
• This venue provides a resource for youth and high school cross country meets.
• It also provides a year 'round, traffic-free and safe environment for youth to "run free", in an otherwise urban setting.