The Running for ALS initiative, where a Spaniard will run the length of Route 66, was recently designated an Official Route 66 Centennial Project by the Route 66 Centennial Commission.
Enric Casacuberta, of Catalonia, Spain, who lost a friend to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, will run the length of Route 66 over five months starting on Aug. 30.
The project will raise funds for ALS research and provide support for individuals facing the costs of treatment.
Thousands have worked to preserve the history and culture of Route 66. By undertaking this journey, Casacuberta aims not only to raise awareness and funds for ALS but also to support local businesses and initiatives along the historic route.
Donations to ALS will be encouraged through the Running for ALS website, which will also feature a QR code and links to the Road Ahead Route 66 Preservation and Economic Development Program.
“Route 66 holds a special place in the hearts of millions, and the dedication of individuals like Enric ensures that its legacy continues while also supporting a critical cause,” said Bill Thomas, chair of the partnership and commissioner for the Route 66 Centennial Commission. “We are proud to officially recognize Running for ALS as part of the centennial celebration.”
Route 66 has been one of Enric’s favorite places, having traveled it three times.
“I’m very happy to collaborate with Route 66 in helping preserve such a special legacy, and I’m grateful to be considered part of its centennial celebration,” he said.
“At the same time, we are asking for support to contribute to the work of the ALS Association in both Catalonia and the United States. It’s an honor to be part of this celebration while supporting such important causes.”
For more information about Running for ALS, to follow Enric’s journey, or to contribute, visit runroute66forals.org.
— The Route 66 Centennial Commission designated P66 Rallye an official Route 66 centennial project in recognition of its unique contribution to celebrating the highway’s 100th anniversary and its impact on shaping American culture, mobility, and community.
Scheduled for October, the P66 Rallye is a 10- to 13-day, non-competitive,invitation-led heritage automotive rally and cultural celebration spanning the length of Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, California.
Conceived as an art-forward, Porsche-themed rally, it blends design, storytelling and driving into an immersive experience that honors the spirit of American road culture. The rally shines a spotlight on the towns, main streets and communities that have preserved the legacy of Route 66 for a century.
— The “National Route 66 Golf Trail – Sticks on 66” was officially designated as a centennial-recognized project. It pairs the appeal of golf with the journey of America’s Main Street by inviting travelers to tee off at designated courses along the Route 66 corridor.
“National Route 66 Golf Trail – Sticks on 66” invites communities along the eight-state corridor to integrate golf-tourism into the centennial by:
- Highlighting local golf courses, mini-courses, putting greens, and golf-related events situated near Route 66 alignments.
- Encouraging themed travel packages that link Route 66 heritage stops with golf-friendly amenities, boosting overnight stays, regional visitation and economic impact.
- Integrating interpretive signs, photo opportunities and mobile app components that tie each “stick on 66” stop to the broader centennial story of the road and local heritage.
Interested parties can email Ken Busby at culturalczarok@gmail.com.
(Image of the Running for ALS logo)