YOUTH WITH AUTISM:

• We are proud to offer a this race again in 2012 for youth affected by autism. If your child will be participating in our race we ask that they have a “racing buddy” that will participate with them through the race, this can be a parent, another relative, a friend, or a Rufus Racing buddy (local area triathletes and Ozark Center for Autism employees) if your child needs a racing buddy please contact Ruth at 417-850-9923 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• Youth will meet up with their racing buddy’s Friday evening 6PM at MSSU campus.
• Parents are welcome to enter their youth in their age group category vs the youth with autism category. All youth with autism will recieve a trophy and be called up by name at the awards ceremony to receive their award. Time will not be a factor in their awards due to the wide age and ability range.
• Hotels- our 3 host hotels are aware of our racers and plan to be as much help as possible for your stay. The guest room doors are triple protected with an electronic lock, dead bolt (integrated into the electronic lock) and flip lock that is separate from the electronic lock. The deadbolt will unlatch when the inside handle is utilized, so there would not be much extra security there should their daughter use the door handle and try to exit the room. The secondary protection would be the flip lock that takes an intentional opening once it has been set. This type of locking set up is the standard for most modern hotels at this time.The hotels recommend a room on our first floor and you would need to request that specific circumstance and the staff would be as accomdating as possible with room availablity. 
• Pre-Race dinner at L.L. Sayer's there will be gluten, dairy, and soy free food options
• Post-Race food options will also include some gluten, dairy, and soy free options