El Paso witnessed something truly special as the city’s top runners came together for a shared purpose, to support the children and families served by El Paso Children’s Hospital. What unfolded over 12 hours was more than an endurance challenge; it was a powerful display of commitment, sacrifice, and heart.

From the earliest morning miles to the final steps of the day, 100 runners pushed themselves far beyond their comfort zones. Some logged as many as 60 miles in a single day, digging deep through fatigue, sore muscles, and long hours on the pavement all for the children in our community. Every stride was taken with intention. Every mile carried meaning.

This was the inaugural More Miles, More Smiles, born from a vision to transform physical endurance into tangible support for pediatric patients. For every mile completed, FirstLight Federal Credit Union matched the effort with a $1 donation, turning sweat and determination into critical resources for children receiving care at El Paso Children’s Hospital. By day’s end, runners had logged 2,984 miles, proving that when El Paso moves together, incredible things happen.

In addition to the 12-hour endurance run, the event welcomed the broader community through a 5K run with a $5 donation, inviting families, supporters, and first-time runners to be part of the mission. Cheers from the sidelines, music filling the air, and constant encouragement created an atmosphere of unity fueling runners to keep going mile after mile.

We are incredibly thankful for partners like Run For It & Sexy Pace Sundays and FirstLight Federal Credit Union, whose leadership, generosity, and belief in our mission made this event possible. Their commitment went beyond planning and participation. FirstLight recognized the extraordinary dedication of the runners by exceeding the miles-raised total and increasing their donation to $5,000 in support of pediatric patients and families.

To every runner who showed up before sunrise, every volunteer who stayed the entire day, and every supporter who cheered until the final mile thank you. Your passion and perseverance made this first year of More Miles, More Smiles an unforgettable success. We are deeply grateful for your continued support and cannot wait to see what we accomplish together in our next endeavor.

About El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation

The El Paso Children’s Hospital Foundation advances the mission of El Paso Children’s Hospital by raising philanthropic support to enhance pediatric healthcare across the region. Through community partnerships and donor generosity, the Foundation helps fund lifesaving equipment, patient programs, family-centered services, and initiatives that ensure children receive the specialized care they deserve close to home.

About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

El Paso Children’s Hospital is a proud member of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for children’s hospitals across North America. Donations raised locally stay local, supporting critical care, medical equipment, and programs that directly benefit children and families in the El Paso community.

About Run For It & Sexy Pace Sundays

Run For It and Sexy Pace Sundays are El Paso–based running crews built on inclusivity, motivation, and community impact. Bringing together runners of all levels, the groups foster connection through movement while using their passion for running to support meaningful causes and give back to the city they call home.

About FirstLight Federal Credit Union

Founded in 1955, FirstLight Federal Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions serving Texas and New Mexico, proudly supporting the Borderplex region for 70 years. Committed to strengthening communities, FirstLight provides financial services, education, and philanthropic support that help individuals and families thrive while investing in causes that make a lasting local impact.