Parkland Cares sponsors Soldier Rush obstacle course to raise money for Parkland mental health

Soldier Rush and Parkland Cares want you to run an obstacle course or sponsor a wall.

Soldier Rush is a military-style obstacle course race that raises money for South Florida charities including U.S. Veterans and first responders in the community. The 5k trail features over 50 obstacles such as climbing walls to challenge the mental and physical strength of participants. Now in its fourth year, Solider Rush organizers have partnered with Parkland Cares, a Broward-based nonprofit that helps the Marjory Stoneman Douglas community find personalized support to cope and overcome the tragic events of February 14, 2018.

On Saturday, November 10, the Soldier Rush 5K will honor the 17 victims by donating part of the race’s funds – in a very creative way. This year, 17 of the 50+ obstacles will be a climbing wall, one for each of the victims of the Parkland shooting.

“Parkland Cares is thrilled to be involved in this incredible race. It is a meaningful way to honor the 17 who were lost in this horrific act of violence. A race of endurance, strength and perseverance are some of the same qualities that will help our community move forward and continue to heal,” says Stacey Udine, the Executive Director of Parkland Cares.

When Soldier Rush Founder Manuel Mair learned about Parkland Cares, he knew what he wanted to do.

“The obstacle walls are a memorial for that day in honor of the victims of the shooting,” Mair says. He’s still looking for a few good sponsors, but he also says not to be intimidated by the race itself.

“I designed Soldier Rush to be doable for the majority of people of all fitness levels, as well as those who are competitive,” Mair says.

Want to get involved? Come run the course with us or consider sponsoring a Memorial Wall in honor of one of the 17 victims lost.

The 2018 Soldier Rush Race will commence 7:30 am Saturday, November 10 the Equestrian Center, 8350 Ranch Road, Parkland Florida 33067. Participants are encouraged to wear patriotic clothing. Awards will be given to 1st three overall male, female, masters male and female winners. All participants who complete the race will receive medals at the finish line.