The Carolinas CAN Ruck for Autism is NOW DONE! but we still need your support!
Slappy, the 25-lb slam ball, traveled with his carrier Richard Sexton for 750 miles across the Carolinas in 29 days in May 2021. WHY? To raise funds for Champion Autism Network, an organization committed to building sensory-friendly experiences for children on the spectrum and their families.
NOW WATCH EPISODE 1 OF THE ALLEN WATTS DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THIS EPIC JOURNEY!
Gratefully acknowledging our sponsors, Rowan Rock and Timber, Broadstep Behavioral Health, South State Bank, Visitors Bureau of Myrtle Beach, and the town of Surfside Beach, SC.
Thank you!
About Champion Autism Network (CAN)
Champion Autism Network, Inc. (CAN) is a nonprofit autism awareness organization based in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. CAN was founded in 2012 by Becky Large, a business professional and mother of a child on the spectrum. CAN’s Mission Statement is "To create a world-wide network of autism champions by partnering with businesses, local nonprofits and individuals with autism and their families to create and ensure inclusive communities where all people CAN happily live, work and play."
You can make a donation directly to Champion Autism Network by visiting this page
About Richard
Richard Sexton has run over 100 marathons and ultra-marathons and completed six iron-distance triathalons with more to come. But he is also inspired by those who win the daily race with all sorts of challenges, be they physical, cognitive, or behavioral. Some struggles are more obvious than others, but through his friendship with Becky, his personal experience as a substitute EC teacher, and learning from his son Daniel, Richard believes that families with challenges need to be supported. The NC Ruck For Autism is a fund-raiser to help CAN, and in turn, help these families. Richard has a regular job, a wonderful family, good friends, and a mostly normal life. And a parrot.
I N S P I R A T I O N S
Becky Large
Becky is the founder of Champion Autism Network and is a person of unbridled optimism and energy. She has been an inspiration for many through her family's journey with Autism and leadership of CAN, and I'm privileged to call her a friend.
The Iron Cowboy
Say what you want about James Lawrence, but this guy has an indomitable will to keep going despite all odds. Best known for doing 50 iron-distance triathalons in 50 states in 50 days, the Iron Cowboy executed an amazing feat.
Charlie Engle
As an athlete and an inspiration, I feel honored to call Charlie a compadre. He has conquered mountains, deserts and his own internal demons with grace, humor and humility. Best known for Running the Sahara, Charlie will be joining us on a few legs of our jaunt!
Teachers & Caregivers
As a substitute teacher to Cabarrus County schools, I am continually amazed at the commitment, patience, and love shown by teachers and caregivers to EC students. They are amazing!
The Nimblewill Nomad
MJ Eberhart is a legend among the thru-hiker community for having trekked, unsupported, the entire length of the eastern seaboard from Florida through to Quebec, and beyond. He never quits.
Coach Jeff
Jeff is the founder of 4 Circle Coaching and "300" Gym, where my wife and I train. Besides being a good friend for many years, he is an inspiration in his attempt to through-hike the AT after just having both knees replaced.
My Family
We've been through a LOT these last few years, from welcoming Daniel into his forever-family 5 years ago to an all-inclusive bout with Covid-19. But we hang together in love, always.