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Registration is open for the annual Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run, set for May 31 at Cody Park in North Platte.
This race to raise awareness of mental health doubles as a fundraiser for Nebraska Game and Parks state park trails. It has drawn runners and walkers from all 50 states and 93 Nebraska counties, as well as two countries, in past years because of its message of hope.
Here are five reasons to sign up today.
Participants in the Memorial Run can run — or walk — this race in person at Cody Park,1899 US-83, or from anywhere around the globe.
The in-person event begins 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 30 and may complete their race anytime and anywhere between May 24-31.
Register for the event at PlatteRiverFitness.com/PublicHealth.
5K, 10K, and half-marathon races are a dime a dozen. But the Vanderheiden Memorial Run offers participants the choice between a 2- or 5-mile distance.
These mileages are great for beginners, the 2-mile race being just long enough to invigorate someone on a new health journey. The 5-mile inches participants closer to a challenge goal: Entering a 10K or half-marathon.
Both distances take advantage of the relationship between physical health and mental health. Exercise releases feel-good chemicals that can improve your energy and mood, reduce stress and improve your quality of life.
This race was started by the Vanderheiden family after the loss of their son, Tyler, to suicide. In his honor, they started the memorial run in conjunction with the Platte River Fitness Series in 2020.
The race began with the intention of being a space for healing and support for those who struggle with mental health or know someone who has. Those who run it help break the silence on suicide awareness and ensure those who feel alone can see a community of support.
“This run unites us all by lighting a path for all who may be struggling,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Tyler’s mom. “Join us. Run fast or slow, but with your whole heart. And share in the memory of Tyler and others who are no longer with us but, in their remembrance, can be a beacon of hope.”
This year, proceeds from the race will benefit the 1.8-mile Fort Kearny Hike-Bike Trail at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area.
This trail is part of a 13.1-mile trail system to Cottonmill Park in Kearney. The portion maintained by Fort Kearny crosses both channels of the Platte River, and its south bridge is a popular spot for viewing sandhill cranes during the spring migration. This natural spectacle brings together people from around the world, just as the memorial run does.
“We are incredibly thankful the Vanderheidens continue to support trail improvements within our park system,” said Jeff Fields, parks division administrator at Nebraska Game and Parks. “Because of their support, we are able to maintain or improve trails, which are truly valued by our park guests.”
All proceeds donated this year will be matched by Recreational Trails Program grant funding — doubling the race’s impact.
The memorial run always offers a themed T-shirt as part of the race registration package. New this year: A line of shirts with the words “You matter” emblazoned across the front.
These shirts, available in youth, women’s and men’s sizes, can be purchased from the online storefront at TylerVanderheidenMemorial.com/store. No race registration required.
