CULPEPER, VA – The 4th Annual Trailblazer Trot 5K and Monster Mile, held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, brought the community together for a morning of fitness, fun, and fundraising. Participants, sponsors, and volunteers helped raise more than $9,000 in scholarship funds for students at the Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC).
The annual event continues to grow each year in both community spirit and impact. The race supports scholarships that help CTEC students cover dual enrollment fees, giving them a head start toward college or trade school training. Each year, the Trailblazer Trot includes medals for the top male and female finishers in both the 5K and Monster Mile, as well as awards for the best costumes, a new tradition that adds a fun, seasonal twist to the event.
The Trailblazer Trot was created by Eastern View High School senior Hunter Lutz in 2022 as part of his capstone project for Mountain Vista Governor’s School. Lutz, who was a member of the Eastern View cross country and track teams, combined his love for running with a desire to give back to his community. Working alongside CTEC Principal Shaun Summerscales, Lutz launched the inaugural event, which raised just over $2,400 in its first year.
Since then, the race has flourished. In total, the Trailblazer Trot and Monster Mile event has generated over $29,000 in scholarship funds for local students pursuing education and training opportunities beyond high school.
During his remarks at the 2025 race, Lutz shared how this year’s event held special meaning for him and his family. Earlier this year, he lost his grandfather, Randall Hunter Richards, Sr., for whom he is named. In his honor, friends and community members made donations to the Trailblazer Trot, continuing Mr. Richards’ legacy of generosity and service.
“My Papa believed deeply in the power of education,” Lutz said. “Although he only completed the eighth grade, he worked hard every day to help support his family. Despite the challenges he faced, he made sure that each of us understood how important learning is, not just in school, but in life. In his memory, donations were made to carry forward that legacy by supporting scholarships for students at CTEC. There’s truly no better way to honor my Papa than by helping others pursue their education and their dreams.”
During the event, Lutz was presented with a special board listing the names of all those who donated in memory of his grandfather. The touching tribute highlighted the strong sense of community that has become a hallmark of the Trailblazer Trot.
“Each year, this event showcases the best of our community, students, families, staff, and businesses all coming together to support educational opportunity,” said CTEC Principal Shaun Summerscales. “We’re incredibly proud of what this race represents and how far it’s come.” He went on to point out that most students do their senior projects and move on, but Lutz has kept this project going, long after he has been a CCPS student.
Lutz expressed deep gratitude to the many sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made the day possible. He also extended a huge thank you to everyone who ran, walked, cheered, and supported this great cause.
Plans are already underway for next year’s 5th Annual Trailblazer Trot, and Lutz looks forward to continuing the tradition of community partnership and student support.
