Runners, walkers, volunteers, and sponsors came together at the Roar & Explore 5K — and the community showed up in a big way.
Participants prepare for the start of the Roar & Explore 5K Run, Walk, and Ruck at Camp Woodsmoke on June 13, 2026.
(Decatur County, IN) — Under sunny skies and pleasant 74-degree temperatures, participants gathered at Camp Woodsmoke last Saturday, for the inaugural Roar & Explore 5K Run, Walk, Ruck, enjoying a morning filled with fitness, fellowship, and community spirit. When it was all over, the event had raised more than $6,000 to support the mission of Camp Woodsmoke.
The 5K featured 15 participants, with 41 volunteers assisting with registration, course support, setup, hospitality, timing, cleanup, and countless other tasks throughout the day. The Upper Room Cafe was on hand providing refreshments and snacks for runners, walkers, volunteers, and spectators. Music played throughout the event, and participants, volunteers, and supporters mingled before and after the race in an atmosphere organizers described as energetic and welcoming.
The event began with the Wheelchair Dash, where Beth Scholtze crossed the finish line as the winner. Following the dash, the starting gun signaled the beginning of the 5K Run, Walk, and Ruck.
“The support shown by our community continues to make a difference for Camp Woodsmoke and the individuals and families we serve.”
— 5K Organizers
Claiming overall honors in the 5K was Caleb Steelman of Dillsboro, who completed the course in 26 minutes, 33 seconds. As the overall winner, Steelman received a prize package that included four Indianapolis Indians tickets, two guest passes to the Southeastern Indiana YMCA, and additional YMCA promotional items.
The event was made possible through the support of 29 sponsors and supporters: American Legion Post 235, Ripley County Lions Club, Civista Bank, Bright Lions Club, Forge Fitness, Nancy Baxter, Napoleon State Bank, Stuart Road Racing, The IndyBighams, The Keg – Greensburg, The TAAP – Greensburg, Southeastern Indiana YMCA, Friendship State Bank, German American Bank, Encore Insurance Agency, Tom Tepe Automotive, Heather Pickens, Indianapolis Indians, Moore Law Office, Steve & Pat Foley, Chozen Designs, Whitewater Motor Company, Hyde’s Barber Shop, Tedesco Hair Repair, and the Rushville Mayor’s 5K led by Mike Pavey.
The 41-member volunteer team that helped make the Roar & Explore 5K a success.
“We are incredibly grateful for everyone who participated, volunteered, sponsored, donated, or helped spread the word,” organizers said. “The support shown by our community continues to make a difference for Camp Woodsmoke and the individuals and families we serve.”
📅 Save the Date
2027 Camp Woodsmoke Roar & Explore 5K
June 12, 2027 | Camp Woodsmoke
Following the success of this year’s event, organizers are already looking ahead and invite everyone to save the date for the 2027 Camp Woodsmoke Roar & Explore 5K Run, Walk, Ruck on June 12, 2027.
