The first annual 100 Mile Ruck March Challenge took place in July and raised over $73,000 for Why Me. This is a military inspired event, where a small group of athletes ruck (hike) 25 miles a day for 4 days. Camping out each night on the farm of a local brewery and continuing the march at sunrise each morning. Athletes carry everything they need for this 4 day event on their backs, navigate the 100 mile course, cook their own meals, set up and break down their own camps each night, tend to their feet and bodies, all in an attempt to earn the coveted 100 Mile Ruck March Finisher Medal. From the early stages of planning to stepping off day 1 at Sherry’s House through every blister to the final two athletes crossing the finish line – the entire event was filmed by Brandon Dziokonski, from Cinch I.T.
Brandon then took all of the footage and seamlessly weaves together an incredible documentary that captures the raw emotion of the entire experience. The Next Step is not only the compelling journey of 15 athletes pushing their minds and bodies while discovering their limits but also the fortitude of children and their families battling pediatric cancer. We encourage everyone to take the time to watch the movie whether on your device or streaming on your television.
All 15 athletes are local entrepreneurs or business owners, some with young children, who put their professional and personal lives on hold for four days to raise funds and awareness for Why Me. Some spent months training, wherever they could fit it into their day – whether early in the morning or late at night. In so many ways this competition honored many obstacles that a child with cancer faces. Our athletes were away from their families and the comfort of their own homes while participating. Our Why Me children and families know all too well, the stress that comes from having a family divided. Often when a child is hospitalized, parents must decide who will stay in the hospital and who will care for the siblings at home. Adjusting to the new normal of hospital food, machines beeping and discomfort are just a few small things that family have to take on upon a cancer diagnosis. Each night as our competitors set up their individual tents on the hard ground and consume their prepacked meals, they were reminded of what it feels like to miss the comforts of home. The rucks they carried were symbolic of the baggage and emotions that childhood cancer patients and their families must carry as they face a life-threatening illness and uncertain future.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world”
— Margaret Mead
Thank you to each athlete – Rick Porter, the creator of the 100 Mile Ruck March, Jay Barron, Eric Carey, Tim Coelho, Casey Cormier, Mike Covino, Tory Gisleson, Jessica Jacques, Tye Jordan, Evan Koogler, Tucker Mahoney, Troy Milliken, David Ojerholm, Michelle Paton, Tobe Reed. Each had your own personal “why” but we hope that throughout the four days we were able to show you Why Me’s why. 100 miles in 4 days is grueling but pales in comparison to what children battling cancer have to endure. You signed up without hesitation and have truly made a difference in so many lives of local families. {Below pictured L-R are finishers: Mike Covino, Tobe Reed, Tory Gisleson, Troy Milliken, Rick Porter, Jay Barron, Tucker Mahoney, Jessica Jacques, Tye Jordan and Tim Coelho.}
Join us July 21-24, 2022 for the 2nd annual 100 Mile Ruck March Challenge. Sign up as a volunteer or athlete here.
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