Ridge Runners Racing Presents…
Ridge Runners Racing, in partnership with Big Rex Fireworks, proudly presents Big Rex's Bottle Rocket 5K and Little Rex’s Kids Fun Run (.76 mile). This event will take place on Saturday July 4, 2026 in cooperation with the city of Dry Ridge, Kentucky.
Little Rex’s Kids Fun Run (.76 mile) will start at 8:30 AM followed by Big Rex’s Bottle Rocket 5K at 9:00 AM. Both races will start at the City Building and finish inside Piddle Park (check out the Course Maps section for more details).
We hope you will plan to stay afterward at Piddle Park to help us celebrate 250 years of independence in our beloved nation!
“Come Blast Off With Us” on Saturday, July 4th!
Get Ready to Blast Off
Pick Your Race
Little Rex's Kids Fun Run
Big Rex's Bottle Rocket 5K
GODFATHER GIVEAWAY
Age Groups
LITTLE REX'S KIDS FUN RUN:
10 and Under (Each registered runner may be accompanied by one adult chaperone at no additional cost). Only registered runners are eligible for race swag.
BIG REX'S BOTTLE ROCKET 5K:
Under 10, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80 & over.
AWARDS
LITTLE REX'S KIDS FUN RUN:
Overall winners (male and female) will receive a special race themed award. All finishers will receive a special race themed memento.
BIG REX'S BOTTLE ROCKET 5K:
Overall and Age Group winners in male and female divisions will receive a special race themed award. All finishers will receive a special finishers medal with race logo.
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
City of Dry Ridge
Dry Ridge City Building
31 Broadway St
Dry Ridge, KY 41035 US
View Location on Map
About Our Partners
Our Mission... BE A LIGHT
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:14–16
ABOUT US
Big Rex Fireworks is a faith-driven, family-owned seasonal fireworks business with a mission to be a light in the community. For nearly 30 years, we’ve proudly served the Northern Kentucky area, building lasting relationships through genuine care for our neighbors and a strong desire to serve. We are passionate about helping families experience the joy of every celebration while creating lasting memories. We offer top-quality fireworks at the best prices. As an owner-operated business, we keep our prices low, consistently beating competitor coupons, and provide outstanding value to every customer. We’re also deeply committed to giving back—supporting local schools, churches, and organizations that help keep the light of our community shining bright.
Big Rex launched his first fireworks stand in Davie, Florida, in 1982 at just 16 years old. He spent the next 13 years selling fireworks across South Florida before relocating his family to Dry Ridge, Kentucky in 1996. That same year, he opened Kentucky’s first seasonal fireworks tent. At the time, state laws required customers to sign a waiver promising to use the fireworks outside of Kentucky. Undeterred, Big Rex spent years advocating for change—playing a key role in the effort that ultimately led to the legalization of fireworks in Kentucky in 2011.
Big Rex passed away in December 2020, but his legacy lives on. He is fondly remembered by his family, friends, and community for his warm smile, generous spirit, and larger-than-life personality. His memory continues to inspire all who knew him and the many lives he touched.
Big Rex Fireworks is now proudly owned and operated by Big Rex’s son, Rex, and his wife, Kate. Both Rex and Kate are dedicated educators with the Grant County School System and active members of 7 Hills Church in Dry Ridge. At the heart of their business is a genuine desire to serve the community while carrying on the values and spirit of Rex's father. They are deeply grateful for the support they’ve received and remain committed to giving back to the people who make it all possible.
Our event wouldn't be possible without the support of the City of Dry Ridge. https://cdrky.org/
About Ridge Runners
Ridge Runners Racing LLC is a non-profit organization created by core members of the Ridge Runners, a Christian men’s running group based in Dry Ridge, KY.
The Ridge Runners meet regularly on Saturday mornings for group runs. Members also communicate and often schedule additional runs throughout the week as schedules allow. Most often, members of our group utilize these group runs to train together in preparation of participation in goal races. Often, members of our group travel together to participate in both road and trail races throughout the year. Men 18 years old and up regardless of where they are in their running journey are cordially invited to join us each week. All paces and distances are always welcome. Whether you are just wanting to use running as part of your fitness routine or are looking for training partners for your next race, Ridge Runners would love to offer their support.
Our non-profit was created out of the desire to share our love of Christ with others through our shared interest in running. We have elected to host running and ultra running events as a way to assist members of the running community pursue their goals. Our charitable branch we call Soul Purpose is our way of supporting those in our community who otherwise may not have the means or know-how to begin this journey. Ridge Runners Racing LLC meets on the last Saturday of each month immediately following our morning group run.
If you are interested in becoming a part of the Ridge Runners or have questions please feel free to contact us at ridgerunracing@gmail.com. We can also be found on Facebook using the link below. http://www.facebook.com/61569167672009
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Raised of $1,776
Course Maps
