Recreation Events Community Orgs

Upcoming Buckshot Run Will Be Last to Benefit Special Olympics

longtime event – which leads fall slate of local run/walks – could continue under new leadership

McKenna Scherer |

Folks of all ages at a previous Buckshot Run.
Folks of all ages at a previous Buckshot Run in Carson Park.

43rd Annual Buckshot Run

Saturday, Aug. 31 from 7am-Noon | Pine Pavilion, Carson Park | $25-$55

Presented by The Mousetrap Tavern this year, the 2- and 5-mile run/walk has long been held in and around beautiful Carson Park. The annual event has drawn hundreds of participants each year, though this year’s event will be the final year of the Buckshot Run operating under Special Olympics Wisconsin. 100% of the money raised stays local – this year's goal set at $13,000 – to support more than 7,000 Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes. Kids taking part in the Kids Run can do so at no cost. 

Ashley Lodzinski, event manager of the Buckshot Run with Special Olympics Wisconsin, said the organization is focusing its attention on other events that are growing, and unfortunately the Buckshot Run is not one of those. “We have had a handful of groups reach out who are interested in taking over the event,” Lodzinski said. “We are working with them so the event will most likely still happen in 2025, it just won’t be put on by Special Olympics Wisconsin headquarters.”

Learn more online.


"Loopy," middle, and friends at the 2019 Loop de Lori Triathlon event. (Photo via Facebook)

Loop de Lori Triathlon & 5K

Saturday, Sept. 7 at 7am | Loopy’s Grill and Saloon | $20-$150

An annual triathlon dedicated to the late Lori Kleich, wife of William “Loopy” Kleich and the force behind their business, Loopy’s Grill & Saloon, helps folks with cancer and their families find and fund alternative, holistic cancer treatment. The event includes a 3.4-mile run, 17-mile bike ride, and a 3.5-mile kayak, or you can sign up just for the 5K. Proceeds from the event go toward the Lori and Loopy Kleich Wellness Fund through the Community Foundation of Chippewa County.

Learn more online.


Walk to End Alzheimer's is held in more than 600 communities nationwide each year. (Photo via Facebook)
Walk to End Alzheimer's is held in more than 600 communities nationwide each year. (Photo via Facebook)

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Chippewa Valley

Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10am | UWEC Lower Campus | Free

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. This inspiring event – a 1-mile walk, free to attend – calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. Folks are invited to donate to the cause, and should register online.

Learn more online.