GREENVILLE – Nearly 500 participants are expected to take on the 2026 Gauntlet Mud Run this Saturday at Chenoweth Trails as one of The Light Foundation’s signature fundraising events returns with new obstacles, patriotic spirit, and family-friendly fun.
With race waves nearly sold out, participants of all ages will climb, crawl, splash, and conquer muddy obstacles while supporting The Light Foundation, which provides free youth programs focused on responsibility, accountability, and hard work.
This year’s event also celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with the debut of the All-American Mud Runner Award, recognizing participants who show off their patriotic pride in red, white, and blue.
More than 30 teams have registered for this year’s event, including a Cooper Farms team of more than 75 runners. More than 100 volunteers—including members of the Dylan Williams Foundation, Mississinawa Valley High School Athletic Boosters, Fort Recovery Cross Country, Community of Faith Church, Canine Capers 4-H Club, and many other community supporters—will help staff the course and welcome participants throughout the day.
“The Gauntlet Mud Run is about much more than crossing the finish line,” said Matt Light, co-founder of The Light Foundation. “It’s an opportunity for families, friends, businesses, and our community to come together, have fun, and invest in the next generation through our youth leadership programs.”
In addition to the main mud run, families and spectators can enjoy food vendors, a Kids Zone featuring activities for children, merchandise, refreshments, and a one-mile Kids Mud Run beginning at noon for children ages 5–12.
Proceeds from the Gauntlet Mud Run support The Light Foundation, which serves nearly 8,000 young people annually through nine free programs, including Camp Vohokase, Timber Frame Leadership Camp, the LIGHT Project, the Matt Light All-Conference Football Camp, Hooked on Fishing, Youth Wild Turkey Hunts, Leadership Conferences, and scholarships for Darke County students.
The 2026 Gauntlet Mud Run is presented by Greenville Moose Lodge #329, Newbauer Family, The Andersons, Nacho Pig, Spirit Medical Transport, Stouder Chiropractic, Wolf Tent, My County Link, Cooper Farms, and Prosperity Promotions.
Registration online and day of will remain available for the 11:15 and 11:30 am race waves, and community members are encouraged to come cheer on participants and enjoy the festivities, even if they are not running.
