Cross-Connecticut Run for Mental Health Awareness

The Cross-Connecticut Run for Mental Health Awareness

The Cross-Connecticut Run for Mental Health Awareness is the eighth annual group running challenge that follows the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail from the northern end in West Suffield, CT to its terminus in New Haven, CT. The route covers approximately 56 miles and passes through rural, suburban, and urban areas on a mostly flat, paved corridor.

The event is a fundraiser for Mental Health Connecticut. There is no event fee, but participants are asked to donate or raise funds, with a suggested donation of $56. This is not a race; it is an unsupported, end to end journey for groups or individuals who can self-manage long distances.

Organizers provide a digital map with mile markers that correspond to convenience stores and other possible stops. A few very basic aid stations will be staffed by volunteers at intermittent times; participants should bring their own cup and expect limited provisions. Runners are encouraged to have a crew or coordinate group support because the event requires more self support than an official race.

Safety requirements include a hard 14 hour cut off to complete the course, which equates to about a 15 minutes per mile pace on the flat route. Runners not reaching the approximate mile 50 location within 12 hours will be removed from the course for safety. Participants must arrange transportation to the start near the Southwick, MA border and from the finish in New Haven, and must carry a headlamp, spare batteries, hydration, a charged phone and a backup plan for emergencies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.