In 2023, the Russell's Runners Love Hard 5k team was formed in honor of Russell Belcher, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 2. 

Shortly after his passing, Russell's older sister, Aubrey, said that Russell lived "As big as the sun." Extremely poignant words from a (then) 5-year-old. The truth is, she was right. Russell had an incredibly infectious laugh, a warm smile, and a playful spirit. 

In 2025, friends of the team, Mike and Kristen Deiters, experienced a similar tragedy as their son, Vincent Deiters, passed away due to many complications related to Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome. Vinny was the definition of a fighter - surviving a bone marrow transplant at just 5 months old. Though he was never given a fair shot during his time on Earth, Vinny wouldn't let you know that as he continued to smile, laugh, and play like any toddler would, despite the intense rounds of blood transfusions and hospitalizations he underwent. 

If we're all lucky, we'll be 1% as strong as Vinny at any point in our lives. 

This year, Russell's Runners is running in honor of two incredible boys who were taken from us too soon, with the hope that our efforts positively impact the lives of others in the way that Russell and Vinny impacted all of ours. 

Please, join us if you can.