Strides4CMV- Running for Ruth

My Story

Madison and James Wells, tragically lost their infant daughter, Ruth, in June 2024 at just seven months old due to congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common but often overlooked virus that can have devastating effects on newborns. Despite a lengthy and courageous battle, her sweet girl passed away, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and resilience.

In her daughter’s memory, Madison ran the 2025 New York City Marathon as a charity runner for the National CMV Foundation. As part of this incredible journey, we are again organizing a Memorial 5K Run/Walk on June 20, 2026, in Owensboro, Kentucky in partnership with Strides 4 CMV during CMV awareness month, to raise awareness and critical funds to support CMV research, education, and prevention efforts.

Madison completed her marathon last year in 5:29:26 with an average pace of 12:34.

Event Details

Start Time: 8 AM (Central Time)

Location: Adkisson Greenbelt Park West Trail

Parking:

• Joe Ford Nature Park: 3870 West 2nd Street Owensboro, KY 42301
• GRADD: 300 Gradd Way, Owensboro, KY 42301

This is an out and back race on the paved Greenbelt starting at the Joe Ford Nature Center with the turnaround point at 5th Street and Carter Avenue crossing.

Registration Fees

• Early Bird: $25 - Must register by 5/31 to guarantee a race shirt.
• Race Day: $30 - Cash or check only on race day.
• Shirt Availability: No guarantee on shirts for race day registration or after 5/31.

Packet Pickup

Pre-Packet Pick Up: Friday, June 19th 2-6pm at Terry’s Tees, 1359 E 4th St, Owensboro, KY 42303

Race Day Check-In

Saturday, June 20th 7-7:30am at the Joe Ford Nature Park.

Awards

Overall Top Male and Female: Gift Card to Legends - Outfitters of Active People.

Top 3 Male & Female in each age group below:

• Age Groups: 1-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-99.

More Information

For more details, visit the race website: Strides 4 CMV - Running for Ruth.