This Saturday at the Grand Targhee Resort, the “Wrun for Wray” race will be hosted, a cherished tradition now going on its 12th year.
The run commemorates Wray Landon, who was an outdoor enthusiast and a beloved member of the Teton Valley community. He was known for his passion for mountaineering, skiing and climbing and had a great adventurous spirit and commitment to outdoor education. Tragically, on March 7, 2010, Landon passed away in an avalanche on the South Teton in Wyoming. His death greatly impacted the community, leading to the establishment of the “Wrun for Wray” event and the Wray Landon Legacy Fund which promotes avalanche education for the youth.
Michelino Sunseri has been awarded this year’s race director and he was very happy to take over the role for the very first time. Sunseri said that the experience has been nothing short of amazing and he is very glad he got to work closely with such a dedicated team, including Wray and Lani, Landon’s parents.
“Wray’s parents, Lani and Wray, were the race directors for the last five or six years, and they have a lot going on. They’re active in some other events in the community,” Sunseri said in an interview with BYU-Idaho Radio. “They had asked me if I had any interest in helping race direct for the event, I’ve never done anything like it, and I was definitely hesitant and knew I’d need some help. Luckily, I’ve had a lot of help and Wray and Lani have been extremely gracious.”
Sunseri’s main objective this year is to increase participation. They usually have around 100 pre-registrants for the race, but this year they have already surpassed that with their 130-150 runners. Every dollar that is donated and earned during the event from the racers and others present is allocated for the Wray Landon Legacy Fund.
This year, the event promises great new additions to enhance the experience. There will be raffles where contestants can win big prizes to take home, music and fun activities for the family and there will be a grill that will be cooking up amazing food for everyone. Something that is also new this year is that there will be a professional photographer at the end of the finish line, taking pictures of every racer who comes through.
Participants and spectators are welcome alike to come and have a wonderful day. If you are interested in registering, you can still sign up atrunsignup.com/wrun-for-wray, and in person registration will be available from 8:30 A.M. until 9:45 A.M. on the day of the race. The race will begin at 10 A.M. and it is set to become a memorable occasion and celebration honoring Wray Landon’s legacy.