Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series
Agoura Hills, CA – Mud and lots of it! That’s a guarantee at the Merrell Down & Dirty Mud National Mud Run Series presented by Subaru July 17th at Fairmount Park. 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 Pennsylvania 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. MESP has committed $50,000 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, founder of Operation Gratitude, echoes the eagerness to partner with the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series presented by Subaru, “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 burger. 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 and finisher medal.
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 presented by Subaru continues its cross-country trek to:
• Los Angeles, CA on April 17th – Over 4,000 athletes joined us in the mud!
• Miami, FL on May 1st – Over 4, 000 athletes got Down and Dirty!
• Chicago, IL on May 22nd – Over 3,000 participants enjoyed the Mud!
• Dallas, TX on June 5th – Over 3,000 participants took part in the event!
• Philadelphia, PA on July 17th- We are expecting over 6,000 participants!
• Richmond, VA on August 21st
• New York, NY on October 2nd
• Atlanta, GA on October 16th
• Sacramento, CA on October 30th
