Hundreds step off for a cause in Nearly Naked Ruck March

At noon on Saturday around 275 people stepped off together in the name of mental health as 23rd Veteran brought their Nearly Naked Ruck March to Mont du Lac Resort.

It was a brand new venue for the 7th annual grass roots fundraiser.

Participants began with a stretch led by race director Ray Singson before hitting the two mile course. Ruckers carried packs as heavy as 50 pounds and walked as far as 10 miles. Some loaded their bags with canned goods or clothing to be donated at the finish line.

Proceeds from the event go towards a 14 week reconditioning program in Duluth for those living with trauma.

"What we do is we take these veterans who are living in isolation or having that hard time, and we give them all the tools and resources they need to take ownership of their lives again," Singson explained. "If they know of a veteran who needs the help, who needs the support, I recommend going to our website."

As of Saturday night $79,000 of their $75,000 goal had been raised which meets their mark to earn a $75,000 donation match to support local veterans.