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A Message to Our Running Community Following Hurricane Helene

UltraSignup News

October 3rd, 2024

6 min read

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In the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the UltraSignup team want to take a moment to acknowledge the immense challenges these communities are facing. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected by the storm—whether through personal loss, the disruption of daily life, or the destruction of homes and communities.

As runners, we often draw strength from our community, from pushing through challenges, and from supporting one another. Now, more than ever, it’s important to lean on that support. If you or anyone in our community needs assistance—whether it’s a helping hand, resources, or even just someone to talk to—please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We have reached out to race directors in the region and have put together this list of how our running community can get involved in relief efforts to help those affected by the hurricane. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or just offering encouragement, we can make a difference together. If you know of additional ways we can help, please email news@ultrasignup.com and we will update the list accordingly.

Suggestions from Yeti Trail Runners RD Jason Green:

The Yeti 100 Mile Endurance Run was canceled last week due to the storm. This race takes place in Damascus, VA which was ravaged by floodwaters.

Ways to help:

Link to post.

Suggestions from Tanawha Adventures RD Brandon Thrower:

Brandon shared with us that all of his events for the end of the year are postponed. Rescheduling is likely, but not a current priority. 

Thirty percent of the bridges in WNC are gone, with mudslides and widespread disaster—it’s a once-in-a-millennium event. No trail assessments have been done yet; a long recovery is expected. 

Brandon is focusing recovery efforts initially on the communities impacted and is hoping to sit down and plan more soon. Donations for equipment and manpower for trail work are needed. This effort is likely to start around November 1st.

Ways to help:

Link to post.

Suggestions from Run Bum Races Sean Blanton:

Sean Blanton has been providing updates on his Facebook page, including this update from the morning of 10/03/24.

Ways to help:

Link to post.

Suggestions from Hellbender 100 RD Carrie Baris:

The Hellbender 100 is put on by the nonprofit Run828. They are helping funnel monetary donations back to the community. Eventually the funding will go towards work on the trails affected by the storm. You can contribute at www.run828foundation.org.

Miscellaneous Resources:

3 thoughts on "A Message to Our Running Community Following Hurricane Helene"

  1. Andrea says:

    I was really hoping that you would make a statement like this. For those of us who live in the Southeast, the trails of WNC are our home, and the devastation has been absolutely heartbreaking. I hurt for the people of the affected communities and am so thankful to have this list of resources so that I can pitch in. Please continue publishing updates from these amazing and dedicated RD’s!

  2. David Federspiel says:

    I suggest hosting your own running community charity race
    Entry is canned goods, iteams needed or simply a cash donation, I have done this on a much smaller scale to replenish my local food pantry, make up some fun finishing medals , awards. Doesn’t have to be a fancy event but one that is useful

  3. John Goldfield says:

    Bravo. I’m doing the Old Fort Strong Endurance Fest and trying to get as many folks to donate to Camp Grier as I can: https://runsignup.com/goldyonthetrail

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