RIPTON — The Ripton Ridge Run will have both an in-person and virtual event on Sunday, Oct. 10, starting at 12:30 p.m. Runners and walkers from throughout the region are invited to beautiful Ripton, Vt., for a 5K/10K run or 5K fun walk.

The courses take runners and walkers on paved and dirt roads showcasing some of Ripton’s natural beauty. The 10.4K run is a loop, where the 5K run/walk is out and back — both offering participants some of Ripton’s signature hilly terrain. After the race/walk, there will be a bagged lunch for all entrants, as well as awards and a raffle. Due to COVID precautions, the school will be closed and everything will take place outside. Facemasks are required except when running or eating. There is also a virtual run/walk option for folks from anywhere across the globe.

Early registration is online at www.riptonridgerun.org. Race day registration is from 11 a.m. to noon. The registration fee includes race, lunch, a raffle ticket, and a long-sleeved race t-shirt. There are prizes for top runners and glass medallions to top runners in every age group. Race day fees are $25 for ages 15 & under, $30 for seniors 65+ and $40 for adults (ages 16-64). The Ripton Elementary School is on the Ripton-Lincoln Road, less than a mile from the Ripton Country Store.

The Ridge Run depends on the generosity of many local businesses. This year’s prizes for the top runners will include Middlebury Money to show support and gratitude for many of these businesses.

Barry King, long-time chairperson of the Ridge Run Steering Committee says, “Ripton’s families and residents turn out in force to make the day successful and fun. We have a strong sense of community and that’s really evident at the Ridge Run.”

All proceeds from the Ripton Ridge Run go to Friends of Ripton School, Inc. to benefit the programs, activities and purchasing of materials for Ripton Elementary School students and staff. For more information, call the Ripton Elementary School at 802-388-2208 during school hours, email [email protected] or go to www.riptonridgerun.org.