SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 – Both runners and spectators returned for a successful in-person Air Force Marathon after two years of being held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions.
On an international level, the 26th annual event reminded both civilians and military personnel about the importance of fellowship and running for a purpose.
“Being able to hold the Air Force Marathon in person this year meant a lot not only to our staff, but the 8,000 participants who came from all 50 states and more than 10 foreign countries,” said Rachael Ferguson, Air Force Marathon director. “When we see runners reach their goals with smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes, at that moment we realize how important our work is.”
Marathon weekend kicked off Sept. 15 with the two-day Health & Fitness Expo at Wright State University’s Nutter Center. There, nearly 75 vendors stood up booths to show the community the latest developments in sports, fitness and nutrition.
The next morning on Sept. 16, Olympian Paul Chelimo warmed up his sneakers and the stage by inviting marathon contenders to a 45-minute training run. Afterward, he spoke and answered questions during the Breakfast of Champions at the Holiday Inn in Fairborn.
“Running is everything to me because it changed my life,” Chelimo said, adding that his mentor instilled a motto into him: “Go hard or suffer the rest of your life.” “Running has been a way for me to get out of (suffering), and it motivates me to go really hard and push myself.”
Chelimo, who was born and raised in Kenya, also made an appearance at a special reception recognizing the marathon’s “Star Runners,” those who have completed all 26 Air Force Marathon races.
During the Health & Fitness Expo’s second day, marathon officials hosted the second Amputee Mobility Clinic. Partnered with Optimus Prosthetics, the clinic offered support and training to anyone with limb loss, from those just learning to run to athletes looking to pick up speed and skills.
Grace Norman-Taylor, a local triathlete and Paralympic gold medalist, led a performance group during the clinic, coaching on topics such as technique, pacing, training and nutrition.
“Running was my first love,” she said. “I was born into a family who ran, and I looked up to my mother and older sister who were both collegiate runners.
“I’m really excited to work with this mobility clinic. I love meeting new amputees, seeing their processes and how they deal with different prosthetics. If I can give any advice or encouragement to them, it would be to seek out those in the community who will help you find the right equipment. Lastly, set goals and don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t achieve something right away, but never quit.”
That evening, the marathon hosted multiple events. The annual gourmet pasta dinner took place at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, while the 5K race Tailwind Trot 1K Kids Run were held at Wright State University.
Col. Christopher Meeker, 88th Air Base Wing and installation commander, commenced the 5K, while Col. Charles Barkhurst, 88 ABW vice commander, got the Tailwind Trot started.
The Air Force Marathon’s remaining races unfolded Sept. 17, starting and finishing at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. They included the 10K, wheeled race, 3-person relay, half-marathon and a sold-out field for the full marathon.
Prior to the featured races, runners and spectators looked to the skies as the Air Force Academy Wings of Blue parachuted close to the start line and a C-130J Super Hercules soared overhead.
“It feels really good to see the marathon back,” said Sabrina Richardson, marathon volunteer lead and a northern Kentucky resident. “I think a lot of people are happy to be here, especially after COVID.
“You can just see in the runner’s faces what it means to them after they finish a course, and they get to share those feeling with their families, friends and loved ones. To be able to witness that is good to see.”
The weekend capped off with an evening after-party at The Greene Town Center in Beavercreek, where Team Fastrax performed professional skydiving while the Air Force Band of Flight played the national anthem.
Ferguson has worked the marathon before, but 2022 marked her first time as director. She hopes to make next year’s marathon bigger and better.
“This was a learning experience for everyone,” she said, adding that only a few Air Force Marathon staff members had worked a live event prior to this year. “Now that we all have seen the marathon in action, our staff is excited to get started for next year’s event. We hope to have even more runners and volunteers to make the marathon bigger than ever.”
Registration for next year’s marathon begins Nov. 28.
The 2023 Air Force Marathon is scheduled for Sept. 16. The Health & Fitness Expo takes place Sept. 14-15. For more information, go to www.usafmarathon.com.
Story by Darrius Parker
88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs