DEANSBORO, N.Y. — Registration is now open for The 2nd Annual Daniel Barden Highland Mudfest taking place Saturday, April 5, at MKJ Farms in Deansboro, N.Y.

The daylong event honors the life and legacy of 7-year-old Daniel Barden who died on 12/14 at Sandy Hook Elementary School along with 19 other first grade children and six educators. The Daniel Barden Highland Mudfest is an opportunity for families, friends, and communities to gather together and push themselves mentally and physically, working as a team to overcome obstacles and build self-esteem and endurance.

Proceeds will be divided equally between Sandy Hook Promise, the Newtown community organization founded in the days following the mass shooting; and Compeer, a community organization serving the Mohawk Valley by providing rehabilitation and assistance for recipients of mental health services.

Last year, 3,000 people attended the Highland Mudfest, which features courses with both natural and manmade obstacles including mud-filled pits, water-logged terrain hills, monkey bars, and ropes courses. Races are structured to accommodate all levels of athletic ability, with a timed Adult Elite run for experienced athletes, a general Adult 5k run, and a children’s half-mile adventure run.

The Elite Mud Run will have one heat at 8 am, the Fun Mud Run heats will begin at 9 am, and the Kids Run will begin around 11.

The Mudfest will be held on a course that climbs over the rolling hills of Deansboro, located approximately 15 miles south of Utica, N.Y.

Registration is $60 for the 5K mud run in advance, and will be $70 later (for individuals or teams); $75, individuals or teams, for the 5-mile Moor Run Timed-Elite in advance, $85 later; and the Kids Run (1/2  Mile Half Pint Run, for ages 5-12), is $15. Runners of all ages are encouraged to form teams and register to run at www.bardenmudfest.org.

In the spirit of the traditions of Daniel Barden’s Irish family heritage, Mudfest runners are encouraged to wear kilts. Spectators and athletes will be treated to Irish music, local food, and vendors as part of the day’s festivities.