From first to last

Make your ancestors proud at Dia de los Muertos run

At the end of October, runners will gather in Newport to test themselves in a six-, 12- or 24-hour race, repeating a 2.4-mile loop as many times as they can at the Dia de los Muertos Endurance Run.

Even if that sounds loopy to you, you still might want to come cheer on the runners, especially as the day begins with a special treat to honor the holiday for which the race is named.

A beautiful performance of traditional Aztec dance from Huehca Omeyocan will begin at 9:15 am on Saturday, oct. 30 The group shares some historical information before the dancing starts, accompanied by music played primarily on traditional instruments.

The deeply revered Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos provides a universal opportunity to celebrate our connection to loved ones passed on and to our ancestors.

Photo by Eduardo Cruz

The DDLM Endurance Run celebrates the power of this tradition and each runner’s personal power and hard-earned endurance.

The start and finish line will be adorned with a special ofrenda, or altar. Before starting their race, runners can visit the ofrenda to leave offerings that honor their ancestors and loved ones passed on. These offerings of photos, flowers, fruits, drinks, trinkets and written messages provide runners the opportunity to add a unique layer of depth, gratitude and purpose to their endurance run.

The race is held on a loop of mixed trails and pavement in the South Beach State Park, located just south of the Yaquina Bay Bridge.

All participants who complete a minimum of 26.2 miles will receive a finisher medal, and those who complete 100 or 50 miles will also receive a special belt buckle. All participants will receive a pint glass. The overall male and female winner from each race will receive an award.

Online registration closes on Friday, Oct. 29. Race-day registration is available.

For more information, go to ardoradventures.com.