17th Annual Rapp’s Run Invitational

PRESS RELEASE

17th Annual Rapp’s Run Invitational
Sonora Elementary School Hosts 17th Annual Rapp’s Run Honoring Sergeant Bobby Rapp
Sonora, Ca – 9/22/25

The community came together once again at Sonora Elementary School to kick off the 2025-26 Cross Country season with the 17th Annual Rapp’s Run, held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

The popular event brought together over 170 runners representing 17 schools across three counties, showcasing the true spirit of Bobcat Pride.

The run is held each year in memory of Sergeant Bobby Rapp, a former SES student and athlete who was tragically killed in Afghanistan 17 years ago while serving his country. Through this tradition, SES is proud to continue honoring Bobby’s legacy while fostering unity, perseverance, and community spirit.

“Bobcat Pride is when everyone can come together for our kids and the community,” said Race Director Mike Miller. “We are grateful to the many volunteers, families, and supporters who make this event possible year after year.”

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Mike Miller, who was Bobby Rapp’s coach and is still the driving force behind this event; also to all the runners, schools, and community partners who helped make this year’s Rapp’s Run such a success.

History of Rapp’s Run

Back in March of 2008 the staff of Sonora Elementary heard of the death of one of their former students, Robert ‘Bobby’ Rapp. The entire SES Family was in shock. He was only 22 years old when he lost his life while serving in the army in Afghanistan.

Bobby went to Sonora Elementary School from Kindergarten through 8th grade. He was a great student and an excellent athlete in both Cross Country and Track. He went on to also excel at Sonora High School.

While SES Staff and the entire county mourned his loss, Mike Miller and Sharon Gustafson, the cross-country coaches at the time, knew that SES needed to honor and remember him by starting the Sonora Elementary School Rapp’s Run Invitational.

So, in the Fall of 2008 the first Rapp’s Run was started with a handful of Tuolumne County elementary schools participating.

17 years later it has grown into one of the most popular elementary school athletic events in the county, attracting 6th – 8th grade runners from 17 schools representing 3 counties and over 200 runners!

Current and retired SES staff come out every year and make this event happen to honor Bobby Rapp and his family.