Five ways to honor Memorial Day in your running shoes

All gave some; some gave all.

Memorial Day is all about honoring our fallen heroes. Most little towns, big cities, and mid-size communities have some kind of tribute to memorialize those who served in the armed forces (but are no longer with us). There are graveside ceremonies, town hall concerts, and parades.

In addition, there are those of us who are runners...and we have our own options for commemorating the day. After all, isn't that what we do best?

Care to hear a few options for Memorial Day running?

Often times, there are local races with a patriotic theme during this holiday weekend. It isn't difficult to find such a race nearby; there may actually be several to choose from in your vicinity. Many of these races will support area service groups or local efforts to memorialize those who have served our country.

If you're not able to find a nearby race, there are numerous virtual races to consider. Some are free, and are simply done just in the spirit of Memorial Day, while others may have an actual registration fee (that will get you a commemorative shirt or medal). Usually, a percentage of the profits go towards a related worthwhile cause. The advantage of a virtual race is you can do it at your convenience.

Another option is to organize an area group run. For the past several years, a small group of us have met on Memorial Day morning, and run a few miles around a lake that sits next to our town's cemetery. We keep it on the down-low, and are respectful of the setting, but it is quite tranquil seeing all the American flags along the path through the grounds.

There are also national charities that honor fallen service members and their families. One such organization is wear blue: run to remember. Often times, you will see a blue mile at a race, which will have pictures of military men and women who died in the line of duty...these are affiliated with the wear blue:run to remember organization. You can run in your local area, but "pledge" your miles in honor of a specific person if you wish.

Finally, if you are a spiritual person, you can run in silence. Leave the music at home, and maybe ((gasp)) the Garmin as well, and simply say a few prayers for those who are no longer with us while you log a few miles.

These are just a few suggestions for those who may be interested in paying tribute on Memorial Day.

Myself, I'm hoping to gather (with friends) at the lake and run a few miles in and around our town's cemetery. The weather is looking a bit iffy (rain! again!), but I plan to get out for a few miles even if I run them solo.

Do you have any plans for Memorial Day? Have you ever participated in a race over Memorial Day weekend? Ever done a tribute run, on your own or with a small group?

I'm linking this with Meranda and Lacey for the Friday with Fairytales and Fitness link-up. 

 

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