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Registration is open for the fourth annual Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run, a race aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health that also acts as a fundraiser for Nebraska Game and Parks state park trails.
The run is May 25 at Cody Park, 1899 US-83, North Platte. Participants may choose between a 2-mile or 5-mile distance and run or walk in-person or virtually.
Register for the event at PlatteRiverFitness.com/PublicHealth or donate to the fundraiser at TylerVanderheidenMemorial.com.
Funds raised from the 2024 run will support upgrades to the Jim MacAllister Nature Trail, a 1.5-mile hiking path through the Niobrara River Valley at Smith Falls State Park.
“Tyler’s run represents so much more to me than just an event; it is a beacon of hope and remembrance, where every step we take becomes a testament to the love that Tyler carried and the love we still carry for him. It is a run that unites us all by lighting a path for all who may be struggling,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Tyler’s mom and executive director of the West Central District Health Department. “Please lace up your shoes and join us for all who may face mental health challenges. Run with your heart and help bring us closer to a world where no one feels alone in their struggle.”
The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. Central time, with race-day registration and packet pickup from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. at the park pavilion. Those choosing to run virtually must register by 4 p.m. Central time May 24 and may complete their race anytime and anywhere between May 24-26.
Like years prior, race organizers have made it a goal to see runners from every Nebraska county and every state in the nation participate in-person or virtually in the race. As of early March, people from 12 counties in Nebraska and 14 states were registered.
The run is organized by the Platte River Fitness Series with support by West Central District Health Department. For the third year, proceeds will be donated to the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation for the creation, maintenance or upgrade of trails at the 76 state park areas.
“Trails connect people to nature, and science shows it improves their mental well-being and physical health,” said Jeff Fields, parks division administrator for Nebraska Game and Parks. “We are honored to work with the Vanderheiden family to enhance trails in Nebraska state parks for the benefit of all.”
To learn more about the trail project, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for “Vanderheiden.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated March 20, 2024. It is the fourth annual memorial run, but the third that acts as a fundraiser for Nebraska Game and Parks trails.
