Ron Materi Memorial 5K to be held in Upton

Since 2013, the Ron Materi Memorial 5K has been an opportunity to support a local cause and honor the memory of a beloved member of the community while enjoying the fall outdoors. All proceeds go to the Ron Materi Road Trip Fund, which was established to help families travel to reach treatment for life-threatening illnesses.

The fund was established in honor of Ron Materi by his wife, Carla, and children. Materi worked at Black Thunder Mine until his retirement in 2011 and was known for his generosity and kindness.

Using his memorial money, the Materis created a fund that provides gas cards for individuals who need to travel for medical treatment – a boost of help for members of a community that’s based in a rural area where travel costs can mount up fast.

The annual run replenishes the fund and will take place this year on September 7 at the city park in Upton. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. (race day registration is $30), walkers will set off at 8 a.m. and runners will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Register ahead of time by calling 307-680-2958, emailing [email protected] or visiting the Facebook page “RonMateriRoadTripFoundation”. Early registration is discounted at $25 and includes a t-shirt and a chance to win a prize.

Festival in the Park will be taking place at the finish line to provide plenty of post-race entertainment.