wear blue: run to remember Partners with Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon

wear blue: run to remember proudly partnered with the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon for the first time this November. Veterans, military members, their families, and runners came together to honor fallen service members through a powerful moment of reflection and remembrance.

The marathon, organized by Sports Backers, featured a moving Circle of Remembrance led by wear blue’s Chief Operating Officer, Lee Yoneyama. As part of this tribute, participants spoke the names of fallen heroes, carrying their legacies forward with every step taken in the marathon, half marathon, and 8k.

Held on Saturday, November 16, the Circle of Remembrance invited participants and spectators alike to join this meaningful event just before the races began.

"The Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon takes place around Veterans Day, so we are always seeking meaningful ways to honor the brave men and women who have served our country," said Megan Schultz, Race Director of the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon. "The wear blue: run to remember Circle of Remembrance provided a poignant opportunity to pay tribute to our fallen service members, and we were humbled and excited to have wear blue join us on race day."

Taking place in the wake of Veterans Day, the event held profound significance for wear blue. It created a space for military members, their families, veterans, and civilian supporters to come together in movement and reflection, fostering a sense of community and emotional well-being.

“We were honored to lead a Circle of Remembrance at the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon with Sports Backers,” said Lee Yoneyama, Chief Operating Officer of wear blue and Command Sergeant Major, US Army (Retired). “Thanks to their partnership, the military community and civilian supporters stood side by side, paid tribute to our fallen heroes, and ensured their memory lives on."

Join the wear blue Community

To find a wear blue community near you or learn how you can participate in future events, visit www.wearblueruntoremember.org/communities.

About Sports Backers

Sports Backers is a nationally recognized nonprofit committed to inspiring active living. The organization promotes safe biking and walking spaces, supports youth running, celebrates athletic achievements through its events, and encourages communities to embrace healthy, active lifestyles.