Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra Launches New Programs Supporting Firefighters, Wildfire Survivors, and Future First Responders

September 3, 2026

www.firefightersrunfree.com

Healdsburg, California (September 3, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — In response to the devastating wildfire seasons that continue to impact communities across the West Coast, the Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra, hosted by Healdsburg Running Company in partnership with Aravaipa Running, is proud to announce four new community initiatives dedicated to supporting firefighters, wildfire survivors, and the next generation of first responders.

The trail running community has always demonstrated resilience, generosity, and the power to come together in times of need. These new programs extend that spirit beyond the finish line by providing meaningful support to those who protect our communities and those whose lives have been forever changed by wildfire.

Runners Back on Your Feet!

Helping fire victims and runners rebuild their lives.

This initiative provides assistance to runners and community members affected by wildfires, helping them regain access to the gear, resources, and support they need to return to the trails and continue their active lifestyles. Whether replacing essential equipment or connecting individuals with community resources, the goal is simple: help people get back on their feet.

Skip Brand
Race Director Sonoma Fall Classic Races at Lake Sonoma and Founder of Healdsburg Running Company
“Our trail community and Friends of Lake Sonoma are indebted to the firefighters who rescued Lake Sonoma three times! This is why we are offering “Firefighters Run Free” at the Sonoma Fall Classic races for as long as I’m involved in this race series”

Food2Firefighters

Providing meals, hydration, and nutrition for our
brave firefighters.

Wildland firefighters work long, exhausting hours under some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. Food2Firefighters will deliver nutritious meals, hydration, and recovery support to firefighters serving on the front lines during wildfire incidents throughout the region.

Robert Mosby
President of Rotary Club of Healdsburg Sunrise
“I’m thankful for the fast action of Healdsburg Running Company in 2020 to start “Food2Firefighters”. The fundraising and implementation during the Walbridge fire is something that Sunrise Rotary is proud of.”

Firefighters Run Free!

Empowering firefighters through trail running and
ultra events.

To recognize the extraordinary service of our firefighting community, eligible firefighters will receive complimentary entries to the Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra. The program encourages physical wellness, mental resilience, recovery, and camaraderie by inviting those who serve to experience the transformative power of trail running.

Firefighter Scholarships (EMT School)

Investing in tomorrow’s first responders.

The Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra will help fund EMT education scholarships for aspiring firefighters pursuing Emergency Medical Technician certification. By reducing financial barriers to training, the program aims to strengthen the pipeline of dedicated professionals ready to serve their communities.

Jed Matcham
Fire Chief, Calistoga Fire Department
“The community efforts like Skip’s Healdsburg Running Company and Rotary community services are needed to supplement existing firefighting programs in times of need in Sonoma County.”

More Than a Race

“The Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra has always been about community,” said Skip Brand. “As wildfires continue to impact the places we live, run, and love, we believe our event can become a platform for giving back. These initiatives are about honoring the courage of firefighters, supporting those affected by wildfire, and investing in a stronger future.”

The Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra invites runners, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners to join these efforts. Every registration, donation, and partnership helps expand the impact of these programs and strengthens the connection between the trail running community and those who protect it.

Together, we can turn miles into meaningful support for the heroes who answer the call when our communities need them most.

Tropical John Medinger
Founder of Lake Sonoma Race Series
John has been race directing since the 1970s as the former president of Western States Endurance Run (WSER) and familiar with fire disrupting races, lives, and communities. For that reason, he’s working with WSER on programs like Skip’s, which create initiatives like Lake Sonoma across the 250 Western States qualifying races. Making “Firefighters Run Free” happen is both doable and scalable.

About the Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra

The Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra is a premier trail running event hosted by Healdsburg Running Company in partnership with Aravaipa Running, celebrating endurance, community, and the natural beauty of Sonoma County. Through these new initiatives, the event is expanding its mission to create lasting positive impact both on and off the trail.

Media Contact

Sonoma Fall Classic Ultra
Hosted by Healdsburg Running Company
In Partnership with Aravaipa Running