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The inaugural A Run to Remember 5K took place on the morning of March 23 and welcomed 32 participants who ran on the Chessie Trail in honor of veterans who died overseas or back home, including veterans who died by suicide.
Organizing the 5-kilometer race was Jen Heltsley, a second lieutenant with the U.S. Marine Corps who is now a student at the Washington and Lee University School of Law.
The race benefited Mission 22, a non-profit organization that provides support to veterans and their families.
“We run to remember all those who lost their lives fighting for our freedoms,” wrote Heltsley in promoting the race. “Those that died overseas and those, who, even though they came home, never really came home. We run to remember all the sacrifices our men and women in uniform have made.”
Runners raced on an out-and-back course, starting and ending at McKethan Park, and runners endured some light rain during the race. There were 10 men and 22 women racing.
The winner of the race was Thomas Blackwell, 28, finishing in an impressive time of 18 minutes, 23.36 seconds. Logan Comer placed a distant second in 21:02.79, and Gabriel Stulce finished third in 22:59.33.
Leading the women was Teressa Colhoun, 25, placing seventh overall in 24:59.62. Placing second among women and eighth overall was Annelise Burgess in 25:45.38. The third female finisher was Helen Hodge, placing 10th overall in 28:03.43.
For full results, visit www.runroanoke.com.
