The RyR Endurance Team raised $13,567 for Wendell Foster during its second annual RyR Race Weekend, held in memory of 7-year-old Georgia Claire Powell. The financial gift was presented in person on Wednesday and was received with heartfelt emotion by Georgia’s family.
“It was pretty special just seeing the expression on Georgia’s dad’s face,” said race organizer Dean Roberts. “He was really touched just being in Wendell Foster again after spending so much time there before Georgia passed. The look on the Wendell Foster team’s face when Paula revealed the dollar amount just made it all worthwhile.”
Kara Howard, vice president of development and community engagement at Wendell Foster, expressed the organization’s deep appreciation for the support.
“Paula and Dean’s decision to honor Georgia Claire in this way reflects how deeply their hearts are invested in this community,” Howard said. “This donation will help sustain all programs and services at Wendell Foster, ensuring individuals and families — just like Georgia Claire’s — continue to receive the care and support they need, both today and into the future.”
Powell was born prematurely and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy after contracting RSV. Though nonverbal and immobile, she was known for her radiant smile and deep connections with those around her. Her mother, Amanda, said Georgia’s joy was unmistakable and her resilience unmatched, even through countless doctor visits and therapy sessions.
Georgia received therapy services at Wendell Foster for years, and her memory continues to leave a lasting impression on the community.
“We are thankful Paula, Dean, and family shared the impact of Georgia Claire’s memory to benefit Wendell Foster in the 2nd annual RYR endurance race,” Amanda said. “Georgia loved her time spent in various therapies at Wendell Foster over the years. Georgia Claire only spoke with a smile, and she continues to impact so many lives, and we are so proud.”
Participation in the 2025 race increased by 75% over the inaugural year, with runners traveling from 13 states and Ireland. Roberts said that three runners hit Boston Marathon qualifying times, and many others set personal records thanks to the event’s flat, looped course along Owensboro’s David C. Adkisson Greenbelt.
“All the feedback we’ve gotten has been positive,” Roberts said. “People appreciate how spectator-friendly it is, and the opportunity to stage their own nutrition each lap. It’s also easier on law enforcement, since we don’t have to shut down a bunch of roads.”
The course begins and ends at Horse Fork Creek Park and offers distances for all levels — including a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, casual marathon, competitive marathon, and a 50K ultra. Loops range from one lap for the 5K to 11 laps for the ultra.
The event also saw strong support from sponsors, which Roberts said made the large donation possible.
“The sponsors are the financial foundation that let us kick this off and make it a success,” he said. “The more sponsors we have, the more of the race entry fees can go directly to Wendell Foster.”
This year’s sponsors included Legends, Fastek Services, Century Aluminum, Greensman Landscaping, Artware Express, German American Bank, and Nick T. Arnold Jewelers.
Looking ahead, registration is already open for the 2026 RyR Race Weekend, scheduled for Nov. 15–16. The team is seeking additional volunteers and sponsors, with nearly 70 volunteers needed to help the weekend run smoothly.
For more information or to register, volunteer, or sponsor the event, visit the RyR Endurance Team website.
