In 2005, Ewing Irrigation started sponsoring employees and their family members in P.F. Chang's Rock "n' Roll Arizona Marathon and Half Marathon to encourage greater health and wellness throughout the company. Team Ewing surpassed its goal this year of raising $25,000 for Autism Speaks, with runners raising $30,000 and Ewing donated an additional $20,000, for a total of $50,000 to Autism Speaks.

While Ewing Irrigation specialty may be selling sprinklers, it's also earning a reputation for running.

Its employees finished the 2014 P.F. Chang's Rock "n' Roll Arizona Marathon and Half Marathon on Jan. 19. The team had over 700 participants from 25 states"?uearning the team first place in the Rock Corporate Challenge Corporate Large Division, a friendly competition that encourages companies to train for the half or full marathon.

"We encourage fitness as healthcare costs continue to rise, and to create healthier and happier employees," said company president Doug York.

David Bower, an agricultural irrigation design specialist, took part in his first full marathon, learning the benefits of walking 26.2 miles through his months of training in Grants Pass, Ore. He lost 35 pounds, gained physical energy and renewed his mental clarity.

"When I reach the end of myself, my problems and my challenges, it is then that I can truly relax for just a short while and enjoy the opportunity to be refreshed," Bower said.

Team Ewing has been committed to the cause of Autism Speaks and has raised a total of over $200,000 since 2009. With these funds, Autism Speaks is finding more treatments and offering more resources and education to families and communities affected by autism, said Amy Hummell, the Arizona director for Autism Speaks.