HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style
    Travel >> Holiday Travel >  >> Travel Notes

Richard Sexton's Epic 750-Mile Ruck Run for Autism Awareness Ends in Surfside Beach

Richard Sexton s Epic 750-Mile Ruck Run for Autism Awareness Ends in Surfside Beach

Myrtle Beach proudly offers restaurants and attractions certified in autism and sensory processing disorder awareness through the Champion Autism Network (CAN). This organization is dedicated to creating sensory-friendly experiences for children on the autism spectrum and their families. Surfside Beach, one of the 14 Grand Strand communities, is the first town fully certified by CAN, enabling families with autistic children to vacation comfortably in the Myrtle Beach area. The CAN certification has made a profound impact, allowing families to relax worry-free at the beach.

Richard Sexton, a passionate CAN champion, is running a marathon daily throughout May—starting April 28—to raise autism awareness. Symbolizing the constant burden carried by individuals with autism and their loved ones, he hauls "Slappy," a 25-pound slam ball, during his 750-mile journey across the Carolinas to Surfside Beach. Each day features a 26-mile marathon with the ruck, culminating on May 26. "It’s that weight of always having that responsibility. You can’t just conveniently drop it and walk away," Richard explains. "If families can’t put it down, why should I?"

Richard Sexton s Epic 750-Mile Ruck Run for Autism Awareness Ends in Surfside Beach

Richard aims to raise $50,000 for CAN's autism awareness efforts. Track his and Slappy's final days on CAN’s Facebook page and try suggested at-home workouts.

Inspired by his role as an early childhood education substitute teacher and parent to an exceptional child adopted from China, Richard has witnessed firsthand the challenges autism families face. He is committed to fostering awareness and strengthening community support for a brighter future.

CAN and the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and CVB will welcome Richard to Surfside Beach with a family event on Wednesday, May 26, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at South State Bank. Enjoy food, a bounce house, and a local DJ—join us to celebrate his remarkable feat!

On Thursday, May 27 at 1:00 p.m., the mayor will present Richard with the key to the city, and May 26 will be declared “Richard Sexton Day” at the Sundown Restaurant patio.

For more information, please visit our Autism-Friendly Vacation Resources.

Travel Notes
  • Sun Country Airlines: Affordable Nonstop Flights to Stunning Beach Destinations

    Beach vacations top the list for many travelers, yet not every U.S. city offers easy access to pristine shores. For landlocked adventurers, Sun Country Airlines provides an ideal solution—a reliable low-cost carrier offering nonstop flights from over 50 U.S. airports to sought-after beach spots across the U.S., Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.Founded to whisk winter-weary passengers from the Upper Midwest to sunny escapes with budget-friendly fares, Sun Country has expanded significantly

  • -

    Greece is home to over 6,000 islands, ranging from secluded paradise atolls to vibrant destinations like Crete, where you can dive into lively city scenes. Its no wonder Greek island holidays remain a perennial favorite among discerning travelers.Whether youre chasing idyllic beaches, hidden trails, or the regions profound history, this expert guide spotlights Greeces premier islands to match your ideal getaway.Best for BeachesCreteIn Cretes scorching summers, temperatures often surpass 86°F

  • Richard Sexton s Epic 750-Mile Ruck Run for Autism Awareness Ends in Surfside Beach

    Myrtle Beach proudly offers restaurants and attractions certified in autism and sensory processing disorder awareness through the Champion Autism Network (CAN). This organization is dedicated to creating sensory-friendly experiences for children on the autism spectrum and their families. Surfside Beach, one of the 14 Grand Strand communities, is the first town fully certified by CAN, enabling families with autistic children to vacation comfortably in the Myrtle Beach area. The CA