Blade 5K and 1Mile Walk + Virtual Event

How we started:

• Background: In 2018, our friend and former Ironman Nate Wigdahl, had recently become an amputee due to a devastating injury.
• Community Support: He desperately wanted to start running again and we knew that we could count on Omaha's running community to help him achieve his dream.
• Fundraiser: Nate and a few friends decided to host a 5K fundraiser, and called it The Blade 5K.
• Impact: The quickly put-together event was a huge success and with the funds raised we were able to purchase a blade for Nate.

Our momentum:

• Nonprofit Status: In 2019, The Blade 5K obtained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, and began holding monthly board meetings.
• Nomination Process: The Board of Directors created a nomination process, so that other deserving amputees could apply to receive the proceeds from our race.
• Second Recipient: July of 2019, The Blade 5K raised the funds needed to help our second recipient, Chris, get the blade he needed.
• Continuation: The efforts continued to grow, aiming to help more individuals achieve their healthy running lifestyle.

Virtual Adaptation:

• Response to COVID-19: In 2020, the world threw us a curveball and we shifted our event from an in-person race to a virtual format.
• Record Success: We shattered our previous record, and raised enough funds to help 9 year old Nathan get not one, but two running blades.
• Realization: The convenience of a virtual event actually helps more people!
• Future Planning: The Blade 5K doesn't believe in limits.

Successful Years:

• 2021 Achievements: The Blade 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk raised funds to help three individuals get devices to get them back to their active lifestyle.
• 2022 Impact: We were fortunate enough to help another 2 recipients. Jessica received a specialized leg and Kyel received a Grit wheelchair.
• 2023 Contributions: Raised enough funds to help 3 individuals: Benjamin received a running blade, Sara also received a running blade, and Carter received a prosthetic.
• 2024 Progress: Raised funds to help 2 individuals, including Sienna and Petra, who made significant strides in their health journeys.

Today:

• Mission: Our focus is twofold: helping individuals with limb difference who need specialized devices to get back to their active lifestyle.
• Event Details: The Blade 5K run/1 mile walk will be held in-person at College of Saint Mary's campus Saturday, July 11, 2026.
• Virtual Participation: The event is also open to the world via our virtual option.
• Gratitude: We look forward to seeing you there, whether here in Omaha, or whatever city you may be joining us from! As always, we are so grateful for your support.

Register for The Blade 5K