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To those who are new the the Santa Ruck, we do this annually in remembrance of my father, Wayne Walters who passed away almost 8 years ago.
He was a Marine, and while stationed in Texas, he suggested to his superior that someone should run the miles between two certain towns that were the distance of a marathon, and people donate toys for Toys for Tots.
Later, while watching the news he heard an announcement that the Marine Corp would be sponsoring a marathon length run to raise toys for Toys for Tots… and they announced his name and the designated runner. 😂😂😂 Later on he continued to be involved with toy drives and the Toys for Tots program.
He spent the last years of his life battling cancer and continuing to help people, mostly unanimously. He loved to participate in OCR races, 5k’s and Rucks. After his passing as a way to keep his spirit alive we began the Santa Ruck to keep some of his favorite activities going in remembrance of who he was; giving to others and physical activity.
So what is a ruck? Normally it is a lot of heavy weight in a backpack, and an organized march with obstacles. We instead, fill our bags full of toys, (sometimes our arms, and if it is cold, those stuffed animals in your coat keep you warm!) It is a 2 mile walk.
You don’t have to be an elite athlete, he was stage 4 cancer and pushed through races, we want to support anyone who wants to be there. Toys are distributed locally to help kids in need ! There is no registration fee, no sign ups. We just want you to show up, with your toy donation and help continue this Marine’s spirit of giving.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Keeper of the Plains, Wichita, Kansas, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
