My Middle Creek Flyathlon Fundraiser!

In July of 2025, Running Rivers staff partnered with Trout Unlimited and the National Park Service to salvage the adult Rio Grande cutthroat trout pictured above (and 40 of its friends) from the Medano Ditch within Great Sand Dunes National Park, in which the water was being shut off for the season. These beautiful fish, which currently occupy less than 15% of their historic habitat, were relocated to the nearby Medano Creek where they will reproduce and thrive into the future! This project, as well as many others benefiting Rio Grande cutthroat trout, was largely supported by donations made through past Middle Creek Flyathlon events. 

Running Rivers is all in for Colorado native trout! And when you support Running Rivers through my 2026 Middle Creek Flyathlon fundraiser, you will empower this small-but-mighty 501(c)(3) organization to grow its conservation impact in 2026 and beyond. Running Rivers' dedicated board of directors has charted an ambitious path for the coming year including a growing number of impactful Rio Grande cutthroat trout projects done in conjunction with their state, Federal, and non-profit conservation partners.

Conservation Through Recreation!

On August 1st, 2026, I will gather in the San Luis Valley with conservation-minded Flyathletes from around the country to compete in an irreverant race that is held to celebrate and to benefit the incredible Rio Grande cutthroat trout. These unique fish are an essential and beautiful part of the Centennial State’s past and present, and with your support of Running Rivers through my campaign, you are committing to ensure a flourishing future for our fishy friends!      

Thank you for supporting me and my love of native fish through my Flyathlon campaign!