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 a average pace of 12:34.

Start Time:  8 AM (Central Time)


Location:  Adkisson Greenbelt Park West Trail Parking at Joe Ford Nature Park – 3870 West 2nd Street Owensboro, KY 42301 and 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 turn around point at 5th Street and Carter Avenue crossing. 

Price: $25      **Must register by 5/31 to guarantee a race shirt** $30 on race day (cash or check only on race day) **No guarantee on shirts for race day registration or after 5/31**


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


Race Day Check-In/ Registration:  Saturday, June 20th 7-7:30am at the Joe Ford Nature Park

Awards:  Overall Top Male and Female- $50 cash prize!

Top Male & Female in each age group below: 1-12, 13-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70-99