Introducing the 6.6K Run to the River Challenge
This year, we are extending our race to 6.6 kilometers. A strange distance? Maybe. Read below for why we chose it. The 6.6K is all about understanding and empathizing with water access issues across the globe.
Even though we're lucky to have fresh, potable water spilling from our kitchen sink here in Colorado, water spilling from the legacy mining sites in Creede is contaminated. Water is an increasingly precious resource that needs protecting, and a resource that is impacted by a changing climate. By running the Runoff Runoff, you are supporting efforts to protect and enhance the headwaters of the Rio Grande for improved water quality, riparian health, wildlife and fish habitat, recreation, community health and wellbeing, and relationships with downstream neighbors.
Why a 6.6K?
Don't we mean 6K? Wait, don't we mean a 5k?! Are we really going to make you run an extra 1.6 kilometers? YES!
You don't see many 6K races out there, let alone a 6.6K, so you might be wondering: why not a 5K? The Runoff Runoff started as a World Water Day event to raise awareness of local and global water issues. The distance of 6K is the average distance that people have to walk to get clean water in developing countries according to USAID. In Creede, the distance to fresh water in the Rio Grande is 6.6K.
The 6.6K race is about:
- Going to a resource as opposed to resources coming to you
- Thinking of those who are water insecure and the water we take for granted
- Thinking of a future of water insecurity
Course Description: The Runoff Runoff 6.6K begins at Ed Hargraves Park (the ballfields) and follows the meandering Willow Creek floodplain trail out to the Rio Grande and back, finishing at the Ballpark. Runners, joggers, and walkers of all ages are welcome! Friendly dogs are welcome, too, but they must be kept on a leash and owners must pick up after them.
Time: Details coming soon.
Packet Pick-up: 4-7 pm Friday, June 3rd at the ballfields; 6:00-11 am Race Day at the ballfields.
Goodies Included with Registration: All runners will receive a performance t-shirt and of course a guaranteed fun time with friends listening to live music! Stay tuned for more details.
Runoff Runoff 6.6K Details
Run along the Rio Grande
JUNE 3rd 2023
Creede, Colorado
Event Organizer:
Alex Handloff
coordinator@headwatersalliance.org