There Will Be Mud: Second Annual Mud Run May 5

Last October, the first Russian River Mud Run in Healdsburg was held on the spacious natural school campus of Rio Lindo Adventist Academy, and despite a rash of swimmer's itch complaints from a small portion of participants, it was such a success that participants requested another race in the spring.

On Sunday morning, May 5, the second ever Russian River Mud Run will follow the Great Russian River Race by one day, giving willing participants a full dose of physical Healdsburg in one weekend.

The Mud Run is organized by the Rio Lindo staff and students, with help from organizers of the Santa Rosa Marathon. It features completely redesigned 5k and 10k courses, with nearly 20 challenging obstacles through flooded apple orchards, up and over stacked logs and walls, multiple terrain surfaces, elevation changes, man-made hurdles and natural impediments, a including transverse of the Russian River.

First wave of racers begins at 8:30, the race should over for all at 11 a.m.

Each participant receives a custom long-sleeve T, race dog tags and pancakes for participating in the race, but that's not all: Gorgeous views of the Russian River valley and surrounding vineyards make the Survivor-like course at the Russian River Mud Run a memorable event.

The race’s unique setting challenges adventurers to run through flooded apple orchards, up and over stacked logs and walls, and even through a bend of the Russian River. Runners can choose the 5k or 10k course length, and will be faced with elevation changes, rough terrain, and lots of mud.

Yes, but about that swimmer's itch. "This year, we're supplying more showers and have bought enough special medicated soap for each runner," said Rika Meyer of Rio Lindo Adventist Academy.

For families, the Sunday morning Cinco de Mayo Celebration is open to all with spectator passes to the race, and children and encouraged. There will be face painting, a bounce house, food and snaks and more.

Over 1500 runners have already signed up for the race and registration is still open, $70 for the 5K course and $80 for the full 10K. Here's your chance to get dirty and brag about it. Participants of all ages and teams are welcome to sign up.

Full information on the race is online at russianrivermudrun.com. Proceeds from the race will go to benefit community service projects and student scholarships at Rio Lindo Adventist Academy. 

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