Following consultation with local healthcare providers, members of the Special Kids board, staff, and event organizers have reached the decision to postpone the 10th Annual Special Kids Race to Saturday, October 30, 2021.

"Our ultimate priority is promoting a safe experience for all of our participants by following the guidelines set forth by the CDC and state health officials," said Charlie Apigian, Special Kids Race Director. "We've determined that the safest decision is to postpone the event given the current rising numbers of COVID-19 cases in Rutherford County."

Leaders behind the event still hope to raise at least $250,000 to benefit the care and treatment of local families at the Special Kids campus. To encouragement participation despite the delay, a t-shirt carrying the theme of this year's event - "Dream Big for Special Kids" - will be given out to any entree that's already signed up for the race, anyone who has participated in the Special Kids Race all nine years leading up to the ten-year anniversary, or any entree that is willing to commit to a fundraising goal of $100 or more.

All current registrants that have already paid and signed up for either the March 6 or April 10 dates will have the option to move their registration to the October 30 date or receive a refund.

"We want to thank all of our sponsors, committee members, participants, volunteers and community supporters who make this event a success each year. You have walked beside us and helped us grow exponentially in our ability to serve children in the past nine years of this race. We believe this postponement will still give us the best opportunity to 'dream big' for the kids this year," said Apigian.

Special Kids is a Christian therapy and nursing center for children with special needs. The Murfreesboro-based ministry started with one child in 1998 and has grown to serve over 4,500 children from 19 counties in middle Tennessee. For more information on Special Kids, please visit specialkidstn.com or call 615.893.4892.