Ruck-a-Thon 2026
Carry the weight. Earn the support. Fund the adventure.
Join Trail Life troops from across the region for our annual Ruck-a-Thon! Boys and leaders will ruck (hike with weighted backpacks) around a course, earning pledges for every lap completed. It's a physical challenge, a team-building experience, and our biggest fundraiser of the year. Spectators welcome—come cheer on the boys!
The Ruck-a-Thon teaches boys that hard work earns results. They're not just asking for donations—they're earning them through physical effort and determination. Funds raised support high adventure trips, camping gear, advancement materials, and scholarships for boys who need financial assistance. Every lap counts, every pledge helps.
- Boys: Register to ruck and start collecting pledges from family and friends
- Sponsors: Pledge per lap or make a flat donation to support a participant
- Families: Come cheer on the boys and enjoy the community atmosphere
- Volunteers: Help with registration, lap counting, water stations, and food
What is a Ruck-a-Thon?
A ruck-a-thon is a pledge-based fundraiser where participants carry weighted backpacks (rucks) while walking laps around a course. Sponsors pledge a dollar amount per lap completed, or give a flat donation. The more laps you complete, the more you raise. It's like a walk-a-thon, but tougher—and that's the point. Boys learn that effort leads to reward.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026 Time: 8:00 AM start Location: Harbour Shores Church, 8011 E 216th St, Cicero, IN 46034 Boys should arrive by 7:30 AM for check-in. The event runs until approximately 11:00 AM. Water and snacks provided. Lunch available for purchase after the event.
Ruck Weight Guidelines
Boys carry weight appropriate to their age and fitness level. Woodlands Trail (ages 5-10): 5-10 lbs. Navigators (ages 11-13): 10-15 lbs. Adventurers (ages 14-17): 15-25 lbs. Leaders often carry 30+ lbs to set the example. Safety first—no boy should carry more than they can handle safely.
How to Collect Pledges
After registration, boys receive a pledge form (paper or digital link). Share it with grandparents, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. Sponsors can pledge per lap (e.g., $1/lap) or give a flat amount. Online donations accepted. All pledges are collected after the event based on laps completed.
What if my son can't complete many laps?
Every lap counts! Some sponsors prefer flat donations regardless of laps completed. The goal is participation and effort, not competition. Boys of all fitness levels are welcome and celebrated.
Can parents or siblings participate?
Absolutely! Family members are welcome to ruck alongside the boys. It's a great way to share the experience and show support. Just register as a participant.
What if it rains?
The event happens rain or shine—Trail Life boys don't let weather stop them. In case of severe weather (lightning, dangerous conditions), we'll communicate any schedule changes via email and social media.
Is this just for Troop 7777?
No! This is a regional event with multiple Trail Life troops participating. It's a great opportunity to meet boys and families from other troops and build community across the region.