For over the past decade a Heroes Run has been held at Jacksonville Beach to honor those who lost their lives during the events of 9/11, but this year will be different than others.
The main difference is that the event is scheduled to take place on Sept. 11 for the first time, which also happens to be the 20th anniversary of that tragic day. The start time is 6 p.m.
The date lining up, plus the fact that last year’s run was very limited and casual due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has director Kit Klein excited for what’s in store this year.
“Last year was more of a social meetup instead of a real race,” Klein said. “We’re excited to be getting back to normal.”
According to Klein, other than the circumstances that surrounded last year, the run is typically well attended with a mixture of both former military members and the public.
Although it is called a “run,” Klein said that people can also walk or even ruck. The main thing is that the community comes together to support the cause.
Rucking is people carrying weighted backpacks as the walk, which according to Klein, is a popular option for veterans, who don’t want to run, but can still add an element of challenge to it.
The run will begin at the Jacksonville Beach pavilion and continue on the beach for one and a half miles south before the route will turn and head back to the pavilion.
The ROAR of the Jaguars and Jaxson de Ville will be on hand for participants to meet.
Event proceeds will go towards the Travis Manion Foundation, which began after Manion died serving oversees in 2007, and his parents wanted to do something to honor their son while also helping other Gold Star families.
“It’s all about bridging that gap between military service and civilian life,” Klein said.
Event registration will remain open until the start of the race, but participants are encouraged to register online by going to travismanionfoundation.org and searching for the designated race.
Volunteers are also still needed for the event. Anyone looking to get involved are also directed to the website.
