College of Saint Mary campus/Anywhere You Want!, Omaha NE
Saturday, July 11th, 2026
How we started:
- Background: In 2018, our friend and former Ironman Nate Wigdahl had recently become an amputee due to a devastating injury.
- Community Support: He desperately wanted to start running again and we knew that we could count on Omaha's running community to help him achieve his dream.
- Fundraising Event: Nate and a few friends decided to host a 5K fundraiser, calling it The Blade 5K, which was a huge success.
- Goal: The funds raised allowed us to purchase a blade for Nate, and Nate had a deeper desire to help other amputees.
Our momentum:
- Nonprofit Status: In 2019, The Blade 5K obtained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and began holding monthly board meetings.
- Nomination Process: The Board created a process for other deserving amputees to apply for funds from our race.
- Second Recipient: In July 2019, we helped our second recipient, Chris, get the blade he needed.
- Adapting to Change: The Blade 5K continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of our community.
2020 and Beyond:
- Virtual Event: In 2020, we shifted to a virtual format and raised enough funds to help 9-year-old Nathan get two running blades.
- Support for Individuals: In 2021, we raised funds to help three individuals get devices for their active lifestyles.
- More Recipients: In 2022, we helped Jessica and Kyel get specialized devices enabling them to join events they loved.
- Recent Achievements: In 2023, we aided Benjamin, Sara, and Carter with devices to support their needs.
Looking Ahead:
- Greater Impact: In 2024, we helped Sienna and Petra obtain devices that improved their quality of life and sporting achievements.
- Continued Success: In 2025, Luke and Alec received devices that support their active lifestyles.
- Future Goals: Our focus is on helping individuals with limb differences and growing the amputee community.
- Event Details: The Blade 5K run/1 mile walk will be held in-person at College of Saint Mary's campus on July 11, 2026, with a virtual option available.
Join Us:
We look forward to seeing you there, whether here in Omaha, or whatever city you may be joining us from!
As always, we are so grateful for your support.
For more information, please visit our official race page.
