In commemoration of the Crandall Canyon Mine collapse in August of 2007, the Crandall Canyon Memorial Run is hosted annually. It was started two years after the collapse by the Emery County Sheriff’s Office and is now directed by Gina and Ryan Rappleyea.
The run takes place on a National Scenic Byway. Runners had their choice of a half marathon, a 10K or a 5K. The half marathon is one of the highest in the state of Utah, starting at an elevation of 8,800 feet. Participants had the opportunity to visit the Heroes Among Us memorial after signing in and were encouraged to visit the monument at the mine entrance as well as the monument in Huntington City.
Logan Ewell took first place in the 5k, followed by Daniel Howell in second and Trya Konakis in third. The 10k was won by LeRoy Nielson, while Tiffanie Justice placed second and Melany Weaver came in third. Kelly Dimmick placed first in the half marathon, Taylor James came in second and Alex Garrett placed third.
It was a true family event, with parents pushing children and couples running together. One of the highlights for many in attendance was seeing Kelly Dimmick run the entire half marathon while wearing his mining hard hat. This run is centered around remembering miners and their contribution to the community.
