Broadlands, Nats’ Harper Embrace Ashburn Boy Fighting Cancer

Despite some rain, the Ashburn community pulled together with the 5th annual Broadlands Kids Triathlon Friday to benefit local resident Gavin Rupp, 13, who has been fighting brain cancer for several years.

Now a rising eighth-grader at Eagle Ridge, Gavin was first diagnosed in the fifth grade, according to a family friend.

Earlier this month, Gavin tossed the first pitch to Bryce Harper, his favorite player, to start a Washington Nationals home baseball game.

Gavin faces a daunting challenge after a tumor appeared for a third time earlier this year. Gavin’s father, Chris, recently told MLB.com that his son has about a 10 percent chance to survive.

 "The surgery risk at this point …" Chris Rupp MLB.com, "… you really can't do much."

But young athletes in Ashburn did what they could Friday, raising money to help Gavin and his family. Last year the race raised more than $3,000, and this year all 150 registration slots were filled. Even with the rain and the cancellation of the bicycle portion of the event, nearly every racer turned out.

The triathlon started at the Southern Walk pool and finished at Mill Run Elementary School.

A group called Miles2Run is also raising money and awareness on behalf of the Rupp family. Visit the website to learn how you can help.