The annual Rudolph Run in Mancos Friday night will honor an 11-year-old girl who died earlier this year.
Known as “Em-Silly,” Bayfield resident Emily Anne Coppinger died May 16 of causes related to her disability. Daughter of Susan and Kirk Coppinger, the fifth-grader at Riverview Elementary School loved sports.
“Emily loved skiing, the faster, the steeper and more snow she got in her face, the more she liked it,” her family said. Once the starting gun fires at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, the 5-K Rudolph Run will not only commemorate Coppinger’s life, but proceeds from the race will also help ensure others with disabilities are able to participate in winter sports through Durango’s Adaptive Sports Association.
Race fees are $3 in advance and $5 on race day. Registration is available at Mancos Town Hall and Mullikin Physical Therapy.
Registration starts at 6 p.m. The starting line is near Pioneer Plaza on Grand Avenue next to the Mancos Opera House. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available after the run. Prizes for winners and trivia prizes will be given.
After the run, Mancos holds its tree lighting ceremony starting at 7 p.m., Santa Claus is expected to descend onto the Mancos Valley at 7:30 p.m.
The Olde Fashioned Christmas in Mancos ends with a free viewing of the “Grinch Who Stole Christmas” at the community center.
Information: 970-533-7649.