Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Merrell Down & Dirty Mud Run to aid Operation Gratitude

Mud and lots of it! That’s a guarantee at the Merrell Down & Dirty Mud Run April 25th at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area. Produced by Michael Epstein Sports Productions, Inc. (MESP), this 5K and 10K off-road competition is set to have military-style obstacles, commanding cargo climbs, wild water crossings, enormous mud pits, and of course good clean fun! Thousands of athletes from all over California and neighboring states have already registered!

In addition to providing an exhilarating and challenging adventure for participants, the race has partnered with Operation Gratitude to serve a greater purpose as well. Operation Gratitude seeks to lift the morale of service men and women deployed to hostile territories around the world by sending personalized care packages containing food, hygiene products, entertainment items, and letters of appreciation. $2 from each registration will go directly to support the efforts and mission of this volunteer organization.

Michael Epstein, President of MESP, Inc., expressed the importance of such a partnership, “It’s the least we can do for such a tremendous organization and the military personnel we are so fortunate to stand behind. We remain committed to those protecting our country as we recognize the value they create and the sacrifice they have made – we hope others will join our efforts.”

Carolyn Blashek, found of Operation Gratitude, echoes the eagerness to partner with the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series, “It is encouraging to see that MESP shares our same passion for supporting our troops – they deserve all the gratitude we can give them.”

The style of the course and the charity involved lends itself towards military and public safety personnel in addition to athletes of all skill levels seeking a unique race atmosphere.

All participants will also receive a tech tee, finisher medal, and post-race food. Kids are also encouraged to join in the activities with their own specialized course! Adventure Kids presented by John Paul Mitchell Systems calls kids ages 4 – 6 to participate in a 100 yard dash and kids 7 – 13 to participate in a 1-mile run. Both encounter fun, tike-size obstacles and a slimy belly crawl through the mud pit! All Adventure Kids will receive a race-bib, finisher medal, and post-race food.

Merrell, provider of high-performance footwear and apparel to outdoor enthusiasts for the past 26 years, is thrilled to partner with this exciting event stating “At Merrell, we encourage everyone to get outside and get moving,” says Rachael Martinelli, Marketing Specialist for Merrell. “People inspire the products that we make and Down & Dirty provides the perfect vehicle for everyone from beginners to the elite athlete to get active. We are excited to be a part of it!”

The Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series continues its cross-country trek to Philadelphia, PA on July 18th; New York, NY on October 3rd; and Sacramento, CA on October 31st. For more information including a training program and to register for the event visit www.downanddirtymudrun.com.

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