MIFFLINBURG — Watch people lazily lap by lap or do everything in their power to outdo all the other competitors. Either way, you’re sure to have an energetic day with people who enjoy nature and the opportunity to help others.
CJ’s Resolution Challenge will be held Saturday from 9am-noon at RB Winter State Park, 17215 Buffalo Road.
This event raises funds and awareness for organizations that support individuals with autism and their families. Lewisburg’s Janelle Weaver organized his first run in 2014 in honor of his now 13-year-old son CJ, who was four years old at the time. In 2020, pre-COVID, the challenge attracted the largest number of participants with 251 runners.
“We sold out with 250 runners again this year,” Weaver said.
Race entry options include RC Revolution, Kids Revolution, Last Man Standing and Virtual CJ.
About 1.5 miles long, the RC Revolutions and Kids Revolutions course is half trail and half pavement. Participants run or walk as much as they want within a three-hour time limit.
According to ResolutionChallenge.org, “Decide whether you want to stack laps solidly for three hours or stop by the pavilion to warm up, grab a snack and relax between laps.” “The choice is yours!”
The Last Man Standing increases intensity by subtracting 1 minute for each consecutive lap. The participant completes his 1st lap in 20 minutes, his 2nd lap in 19 minutes, his 3rd lap in 18 minutes, and so on.
“The race should take just under three hours. at a pace of over 6:00 minutes/mile, says .org.
Virtual CJ registration closed on January 1st. Participants will choose any day from his January 1st to his 21st and will run, walk, paddle, hike, bike, Run as many distances as possible.
Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 men and women in each option and the top 1 man and woman in Kids Revolutions. CJ’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a deep commitment to improving the lives of people with autism.
Hot soups, snacks, and beverages will be provided for all participants. We are no longer accepting applications on the day of the event as all applications have been filled.
“What people are commenting a lot on is the fun and relaxed atmosphere, the soup and how the format of the race allows for a wide range of participation – from families with small children who want to walk one lap, to 20 miles or more,” Weaver said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 44 children are identified as having an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups and is four times more common in boys than in girls.
“CJ will benefit local programs and organizations that support people with autism and their families,” Weaver said. “I estimate that about $60,000 was donated during this race. This year’s proceeds will be used to host a triathlon program for autistic youth and their siblings.”
This will be the final CJ resolution challenge, at least for a while. Weaver plans to go on “pause” after this year.
“I’m not sure if I will be able to resume racing in the future, but if I do, it will be after my kids finish school,” she said. I am very grateful to have been able to do this for (almost!) 10 years, I love it so much and the joy and gratitude from my racing days is an emotion that can be kept forever.
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