Team Grease Worms gears up for 2025 Buffalo Run
By David H. Waller
Three familiar faces from Albany will once again climb into their vintage station wagon and set out on a one-of-a-kind adventure this June as part of the annual Buffalo Run. Team Grease Worms—made up of Robert Snyder, Craig Winters, and Matt Birkla—will be driving a 1965 Ford Country Sedan in the 2025 event, which challenges teams to navigate hundreds of miles in low-budget vehicles, all while raising money for Camp Able in Buffalo Gap.
The 2025 Buffalo Run Adventure Challenge begins Thursday, June 5, in Buffalo Gap and makes a round trip all the way to Pike’s Peak in Colorado before returning to Buffalo Gap for the finish on Saturday, June 7. Teams have the option to drive to the summit—more than 14,000 feet above sea level—but reaching the top is not required, especially for vehicles that may not be up to the climb or safe for the descent.
A street dance will cap off the return to Buffalo Gap, featuring live music from Shane Terrell and the Stumblers, Della Rose, and Caleb Sutton and The High Stakes. The event, which also includes a raffle and silent auction, will run from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Buffalo Gap Old Settlers Grounds.
The Buffalo Run Adventure Challenge is a lighthearted but rule-bound road rally. Each team must find and prepare a low-cost vehicle, with improvements allowed to ensure safety and durability.
Along the way, teams complete a series of unpredictable and often hilarious challenges—such as roadside karaoke, mock roadkill burials, and other checkpoint antics designed to test creativity, not speed.
Supporters can donate directly to Team Grease Worms via Venmo by scanning the QR code below and using the memo line “Team Grease Worms,” or reach out to any of the team members directly. More information about the camp is available at www.camp-able.org.
Though the event is built around fun and fundraising, safety remains a priority. Participants must follow all traffic laws and maintain respectful conduct throughout the journey. As the official rule sheet puts it: “Pretend your grandmomma’s watching.”
To follow the Grease Worms during their trip, visit the Buffalo Run Adventure Challenge page on Facebook, where the team will post regular updates from the road.
