Registration is Open for the Rush Creek Stampede
Registration for the Upper Country Education Foundation’s (UCEF) 15th annual Rush Creek Stampede (RCS) has officially opened. Whether you are a seasoned runner or someone who enjoys a good walk, it’s time to start thinking about this year’s race. This is UCEF’s only fundraiser each year. All proceeds from the RCS benefit Cambridge and Midvale schools.
The RCS is scheduled for October 4, 2025, with three distance categories: a half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K and 5K. The 10K was introduced this year in response to feedback from past participants who requested more race options.
After the event, participants are treated to a delicious meal of soup, vegetables, rolls, and cookies. Volunteers oversee the kitchen, assist with event setup and takedown, manage parking, and help with other essential tasks. In addition to volunteers, generous sponsors help cover the expenses associated with the race. The RCS would not be possible without the support of volunteers and sponsors.
The RCS takes place on Rush Creek Road at the base of beautiful Cuddy Mountain. Over the years runners have commented on the beauty of the area. After a hot summer, many look forward to the October race, when cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable and enjoyable run. Although the number of participants from across the Treasure Valley has increased over the years, local participation has declined. Kaitlyn Butler, a volunteer and the director and coordinator of the RCS, would like to see the number of local participants increase.
Kaityln dedicates countless hours each year to planning and organizing the RCS. She became the director and coordinator in 2020, which we all remember was a challenging period for events due to COVID-19-related restrictions. During that time, RCS saw a dramatic drop in participants. Since then, the event has nearly returned to pre–COVID-19 levels. She stated, “My goal for every year is to see growth, and I’ve been very pleased each year to see our numbers rising! The Rush Creek Stampede has options for runners and walkers at all levels, and I’d love to see more community members come out to walk the 5K together. The 5K is just over 3 miles, and in the past, I’ve seen moms pushing babies in jogging strollers, families walking dogs on leashes, and children, as young as 10 running or walking alongside their families. I’d love for more families to see the 5K as a family activity to be enjoyed with their children while also supporting the local schools.”
To register for the 2025 Rush Creek Stampede, please visit the official registration page: https://runsignup.com/Race/ID/Cambridge/RunRushCreek.
