# "The Tap 'er Light" - **When:** Fri, Jul 9, 2027 · 7:00 PM CDT - **Where:** Leonard Field-Montana Tech, Butte, MT, 59701 - **Event page:** https://runthis.run/event/rs-217751-the-tap-er-light ## Registration Register on the event's own site: https://runsignup.com/Race/MT/Butte/TheTapErLight?aflt_token=58wBqomPr6bPwa1YDhuKo0IQvrNCjzTq ## Description Step back in time and race through the rich history of the "Richest Hill on Earth"! Join us on July 10 for The Tap er Light, a unique community running event in Butte, Montana, that combines fitness with a celebration of the city's storied mining heritage. Whether you're taking on the fast-paced 5K or testing your endurance on the scenic 10K, you'll trace routes inspired by the legendary days of Montana's copper boom. Event Details: Date: July 10 Location: Butte, Montana-Leonard Field near Montana Tech Events: 5K Run/Walk & 10K Run Theme: Historical heritage and mining, in conjunction with the Montana Folk Festival.  What do I get? All participants receive a custom "Tap 'er Light" race shirt, a custom race bib, a custom lanyard, a custom race sticker, marked/time course with posted results, aid station support, and refreshments at the finish.  The Story Behind the Name: The phrase “tap ’er light” is an old mining expression meaning “take it easy,” “be careful,” or a friendly way to say goodbye.  Origin: Mining Roots: The phrase comes from Butte, Montana's copper and hard-rock mines and early 20th-century mining culture. The Safety Warning: Miners packed explosive charges (like TNT or dynamite) into drilled rock faces by gently tamping them down with a hammer. Striking the charge too hard or hitting a spark against the rock could trigger an accidental detonation or a cave-in, so workers warned each other to tap ’er light. Cultural Legacy: Over time, the warning evolved into a local farewell or a reminder to stay safe and not rush. Longtime Montana Senator Mike Mansfield famously used it as a signature sign-off.  What to Expect: Historic Course: Enjoy a route that showcases historic landmarks and sweeping views of Butte’s dramatic landscape. Start at historic Montana Tech and run past mining artifacts, including the Original Mine, the Mountain Con, and the Granite Mountain Memorial.  All Paces Welcome: Whether you're a competitive runner chasing a personal record or a walker exploring Butte's history on foot, everyone is welcome. Post-Race Celebration: Cross the finish line and celebrate with fellow runners, local refreshments, and a commemorative finisher item. Lace up, embrace the history of the Copper City, and remember to "Tap 'er Light"! Packet Pick Up/Race Check-In You can pick up your packet at Quarry Brewing on Friday, July 9, from 5- 7 p.m. You can also pick up your packet from 9 to 10 am on race morning at the start/finish area.  Quarry Brewing-124 West Broadway Start/Finish-Leonard Field, adjacent to the Park Street entrance to Montana Tech --- Source: [https://runthis.run/event/rs-217751-the-tap-er-light](https://runthis.run/event/rs-217751-the-tap-er-light) — data from Run This (runthis.run).