Brave Like Ann
Ann Esplin lived with unstoppable energy, endless heart, and quiet strength. She lifted others with her laughter, taught through her actions, and faced life’s hardest moments with courage. This run and ride are for anyone who’s ever found healing in the hills, fought silent battles, or been changed by someone like Ann.
November 28, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Mt. Carmel RV Park
3 Mile Trail Run and Bike Ride
Ann spent her childhood building forts, looking for arrowheads, and helping her dad gather cattle by horseback in the hills of Mt. Carmel. She was a natural athlete and leader. She especially excelled in the point guard position at basketball.
She attended school at Rick’s college and SUU, playing basketball for both schools. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from SUU in physical education.
After graduating from college, she settled into married life, working at Snow Canyon High School. She never lost her passion for sports and coached on the college and high school levels and any sport her own kids were involved in. She loved bringing her kids to Mt. Carmel to learn and to work with her brothers in whatever way they would let her. She lead many hikes in the area for anyone with a willing attitude and sense of adventure (or even if they didn’t—they were coming either way).
She could win any basketball game, have command over any court, and hike through almost anything, but when she couldn’t compete against her mental illness anymore, she came back to this very place where she found her first arrowhead and shot endless baskets.
We wanted to found this race in the memory of her competitive and adventurous spirit in the place where it all began.
— The Esplin Family
If You or Someone You Love Is Struggling
Ann lived with strength, adventure, and deep compassion — even while facing quiet battles no one could see.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone, no matter how brave or capable they may seem.
24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or Text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org