_ The 2022 Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K Benefiting Els for Autism®:
Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K
This 5K features a course through the North Jupiter Flatwoods Natural Area, a 160-acre natural area preserves comprised of mesic flatwoods, wet flatwoods, depression marsh, and dome swamp ecosystems. Since the run will take place in natural woodlands, participants should be cautious and aware at all times during the race. Racers should expect to encounter multiple ground surfaces throughout the race such as pavement, gravel, sand, and grass. Please note strollers and pets are not permitted.
To decrease congestion at the start line and throughout the racecourse, staggered start times, or “waves” based on average mile time will be implemented. Within each wave grouping, 5 participants will start every 20 seconds. Net timing will be recorded for each participant.
Wave 1 (competitive racing and experienced trail runners; mile pace: 10 minutes or less): 7:30 am – 7:40 am
Wave 2 (intermediate racing/trail runners; mile pace: 10 to 15 minutes): 8:00 am – 8:10 am
Wave 3 (beginner trail runners and walkers; mile pace: 15+ minutes): 8:30 am
Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course
The Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course, perfect for all ages and abilities, will begin at 7:30 AM. This course will feature an array of obstacles that involve jumping, balancing, water, crawling, and more located at The Els Center of Excellence.
Post-Race Expo
After your run, join us at the Post-Race Expo from 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM for more activities and entertainment. At the Expo, we will have vendors booths consisting of micro-businesses with products created by individuals with autism, race sponsors, and autism employment partners. The Expo will also have performances, activities, race awards, and more, a morning you won't want to miss!
Virtual Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K
Participate in the Els for Autism Virtual Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K! Once registered, your virtual run/walk can be completed from anywhere around the world on Saturday, April 30th. You will have the chance to submit your results for the Virtual Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K and will receive a finishers certificate after submitting your results. We invite all virtual participants to post pictures of themselves, friends, family, and colleagues completing their walk or run on social media! Don't forget to use the tags: #ElsforAutism and #RootsandRutsOffRoad5K
All races support the Els for Autism Foundation®. Your participation will help us continue to secure funding for the Sports, Medical and Research, and Adult Services Facilities at The Els Center of Excellence™.
Additional Details
Race Day Schedule (tentative)
6:30 AM: Parking Opens
7:15 AM: Welcome Announcement and National Anthem
7:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Post-Race Expo
7:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course
7:30 AM – 7:40 AM: Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K Wave 1
8:00 AM – 8:10 AM: Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K Wave 2
8:30 AM: Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K Wave 3
Packet Pickup
Early packet pickup will be held at The Els Center of Excellence® Pavillon on the following days:
Sponsorship Information
The Foundation relies on generous sponsors to make these events possible! To find out more information about sponsorships, contact Paige Thomas or download the Sponsorship Brochure. Email: [email protected] or Phone: 561-320-9532
2021 Results at: runsignup.com
2019 Results at: runsignup.com