Buckshot Races for Eau Claire Area Special Olympics

Pipers and color guard, plus the National Anthem before the starting gun.

The 5 mile and 2 mile races are held every year on the Saturday before Labor Day in Carson Park, along the banks of the Chippewa River.

At the starting gun, 800 runners are off on the 5 mile race. Another 800 or so, including many children of all ages run the 2 mile race.

The courses are on paved trails through pine woods. Strollers are allowed, and participants are of all ages.

My brother and sister-in-law, as well as my Sweetie and I all received age group awards in the 2 mile race. Sweet Pea came in before more than half of her age group.