April 17, 2025
Gritty Chix Mud Run Gets Even Muddier – Supporting New River Animal Rescue
Get ready to get muddy for a mission! This year’s Gritty Chix Mud Run, happening June 21st at ACE Adventure Resort, is more than just West Virginia’s muddiest, most empowering adventure—it’s a chance to make a real difference. We’re thrilled to announce that New River Animal Rescue has been selected as this year’s benefactor, and a portion of the event’s proceeds will go directly toward supporting their life-saving work.
The Gritty Chix Mud Run is all about strength, grit, and community. Participants of all skill levels and identities are invited to run, walk, wade, and crawl through muddy courses designed to challenge and inspire. Whether you choose the Moxie Mile or the 5K Tenacity Course, you’ll be part of a powerful movement that celebrates resilience and camaraderie. It’s not a race—it’s a muddy celebration of perseverance, and this year, it’s got an even bigger purpose behind every splash and step.
New River Animal Rescue (NRAR), based right here in the New River Gorge region, is a volunteer-powered nonprofit dedicated to giving animals the second chances they deserve. They focus on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need, especially those who are sick, injured, abused, or abandoned. With a no-kill policy and a deep commitment to compassion, NRAR provides vet care, foster placement, and adoption services to ensure every animal has a shot at a better life.
The work NRAR does is fueled by donations and community support, and with the rising costs of veterinary care, food, and transportation, every dollar raised matters. The Gritty Chix Mud Run is proud to partner with this local organization to shine a light on their mission and help them continue their incredible work. When you sign up to run in the mud this year, you’re not just doing it for the fun and the bragging rights—you’re helping save lives, one paw at a time.
And if you’re not into mud but still want to be involved, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to support. You can donate directly to New River Animal Rescue, become a volunteer, or even consider fostering or adopting a pet. Every bit helps, and together we can amplify the impact of this partnership.
Whether you’re a returning mud runner or gearing up for your very first Gritty Chix experience, this is the year to go all in. With New River Animal Rescue as our benefactor, your participation carries more meaning than ever before. Let’s get gritty, get messy, and do some good in the process.
Sign up today, gather your crew, and help us make a difference in the lives of animals across southern West Virginia. Because the only thing better than conquering the mud is knowing you’re doing it for a cause that truly matters.
Learn more about the event and register online HERE and meet the heroes behind the rescue efforts at newriveranimalrescue.org.
Chris Colin is a raft guide, whitewater kayaker, active caver, and as Special Events Coordinator at ACE he manages, promotes, and executes special events like the Mountain Music Festival.