:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/adn/IAICWNTUPFBWPCJIXRZMX4ZDXM.JPG)
In the heart of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, a remarkable event unfolds every fourth Saturday of August. The Lost Lake Run, a trail race that has been a beacon of hope and inspiration since 1992, is not just a testament to human endurance but also a shining example of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together for a noble cause.
The Lost Lake Run is more than just a race. It’s a lifeline for those battling cystic fibrosis (CF). Over its illustrious history, the race has raised over $2 million for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. These funds have been instrumental in pioneering groundbreaking drugs and therapies, extending the median age of Alaskans with CF from 28 years in 1992 to an impressive 56 years today. This remarkable increase of nearly 30 years in the median age is not just a statistic; it represents countless birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones that individuals with CF can now experience, thanks to the relentless efforts of the Lost Lake Run community and its supporters.
Central to this success story is the U.S. Forest Service. Their decision to issue a permit to the Lost Lake Run, allowing the race to take place annually, showcases the Forest Service’s commitment to community engagement and its belief in the transformative power of public-private partnerships. The Lost Lake Run’s journey from Primrose Campground to the Bear Creek Fire Station is not just a scenic trail race but a symbol of hope, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.
The collaboration between the Lost Lake Run and the U.S. Forest Service is a model for how public agencies and private entities can work hand in hand for the greater good. The Lost Lake Run’s commitment to donating at least 180 hours annually for trail maintenance ensures that the Primrose and Lost Lake Trails remain pristine for all to enjoy. This dedication has elevated these trails to some of the most sought-after hikes on the Kenai Peninsula, allowing countless individuals to experience their beauty and grandeur.
The U.S. Forest Service’s ethos, as aptly put on its website, is about creating special memories. And indeed, the memories forged on the trails of the Lost Lake Run are ones of hope, perseverance, and community spirit. We are particularly grateful to the Seward Ranger District Manager, Francisco Rodriquez, and his dedicated team of rangers — Trevor Sporer, Eric Ganshert and Monika Adam — for their unwavering support.
As a local nonprofit group, we are immensely thankful for the U.S. Forest Service’s continued support. Their belief in the Lost Lake Run’s mission has not only brought hope to those with CF but has also showcased the power of community collaboration. Here’s to many more years of the Lost Lake Run and the enduring partnership with the U.S. Forest Service that makes it all possible.
Patrick Simpson has been the race director for the Lost Lake Run since 2006.
The views expressed here are the writer’s and are not necessarily endorsed by the Anchorage Daily News, which welcomes a broad range of viewpoints. To submit a piece for consideration, email commentary(at)adn.com. Send submissions shorter than 200 words to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Read our full guidelines for letters and commentaries here.