Our athletes were warmly welcomed to San Francisco by our wear blue coaches, staff, and volunteers, ensuring every need was met during the race weekend. The athletes participated in various group outings, meetings, and even a 5K shakeout run. The night before the marathon, our coaches shared final words of encouragement and motivation. Coach Tara reminded the athletes, "Not only do you have the strength of your training, you have the strength of your wings...your loved ones."
On race day, our Gold Star athletes embodied resilience, determination, and remembrance as they crossed the finish line of the San Francisco Marathon. Each step they took honored their loved ones and showcased their incredible dedication. Congratulations to:
Ashley Southard: In memory of her husband, SGT Andrew Southard.
Dee Hauschel: In honor of her father, SP4 Dennis Hauschel.
Emily Lemoine: For her brother, SSG Tanner Grone.
Joseph (Joe) Hoiden: Running for his father, COL Timothy Hoiden.
Quinn Mooldyk: Honoring his father, MAJ Evan Mooldyk.
Samantha (Sam) Barnes: Remembering her husband, CW2 Shane Barnes.
Michelle Moore: In tribute to her son, Cpl Jacob Moore.
Rachel Maloney: Celebrating the life of her husband, MSG David Renjifo.
Kayla Martin: In memory of her father, LTC Thomas Hawes.
Sydnie Lubbers: For her father, SGM William Lubbers.
“The connections created this weekend mark the beginning of a tightly woven fabric between athletes, their family members, and our wear blue team. After 20 weeks of training and mentorship, our athletes were ready to endure the 26.2 miles of challenges. They pushed through with intentional, purposeful steps to honor their loved ones' service and sacrifice, celebrate their lives, and accomplish an endurance race that less than 1% of our population has completed. I am incredibly proud of their dedication, grit, and determination to step up, dig deep, and prevail this weekend.” - Emery Brake, Director of GSRP San Francisco
The tribute wear blue Mile had a profound impact on families from near and far. Our volunteers worked tirelessly from 2 AM to sundown, ensuring every poster was ready and flags were held high. It was a moving tribute to our fallen service members, creating a powerful and emotional experience for everyone involved.
This marathon was more than a race; it was a beautiful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our military families. Our athletes’ journeys to the finish line were filled with healing, growth, and personal achievement. We are incredibly proud of each of them and grateful to our volunteers for their unwavering support.
Stay tuned for more stories of triumph and remembrance as we continue to honor our military families. Together, we run to remember, celebrate, and support our heroes. 💙
About the Program:
The Gold Star Race Program's 20-week training regimen is designed to support Gold Star and surviving family members of service members who died as a result of their military service. Athletes apply to join this program, which provides comprehensive training and emotional support. Throughout the 20 weeks, our athletes engaged in monthly calls, where they received mentorship and training tips from professional running coaches and nutrition experts. The program emphasizes not only rigorous physical preparation but also the importance of encouraging healthy coping mechanisms through running. Exercise is known to be an effective way to manage grief, offering both physical and emotional benefits. By fostering community engagement and emotional resilience, the Gold Star Race Program helps athletes honor their loved ones while achieving personal growth and healing. The dedication and hard work of our athletes throughout this journey exemplify their commitment to honoring the memories of their fallen heroes.
Our next group of Gold Star Race Program athletes are currently training for the Marine Corps Marathon in October.
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