KENTWOOD, Mich. — In its fifth year, organizers of the "Eat Dirt Mud Run" anticipated more than 5,000 people would participate this year in what has become a tradition with roots right here in West Michigan.
“I think people are drawn to the adventure races because we’re just more and more indoors in front of our screens, I think it’s a chance for people to get out and do something adventurous,” said Jeff Eckart, who created the event.
Held on the ground of the Kentwood Community Church, the race raises money for "Never the Same—Claim Your Campus" which is a program dedicated to bringing middle and high school students from across the country together in prayer.
“It’s an opportunity to connect to the community, a lot of first timers this year so we love inviting them onto the property and then we invite them to church too," said Kyle Ray, pastor at the Kentwood Community Church.
The course featured hills, mud pits,10 different obstacles and even a 60 foot mud slide. After the race runners had the option of leaving their muddy shoes to be washed and donated to families in need in West Michigan.
