In recognition of those involved in the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, a group of local sponsors is putting on the first ever Hoofin’ It for Our Heroes 5/10K family fun this weekend in the downtown Hinesville area.
The event kicks off tonight at 6:30 with a 1.5 mile walk to let participants warm-up for Saturday’s run, as well as register for the race, enjoy a free concert from Purified Sounds and listen to a dedication from community leaders.
“It’s our effort to honor everything our first responders have done for us since and during the 9/11 event,” said Leah Poole, director of United Way of the Coastal Empire, Liberty, one of the event sponsors
Outstanding members of the fire department, police department, hospital staff and military will also be recognized at tonight’s event.
The race will start at 7 a.m. Saturday. Registration costs $25 and, according to Poole, proceeds will go to the entities being honored.
Capping off the weekend activities, a Public Services Day will follow the race, also in the downtown Hinesville.
The public services activities begin at 9 a.m. and go until 2 p.m. The event will include a chili cook-off, fish fry, bicycle rodeo and silent auction, among other activities.
“There will also be a firefighter challenge,” Poole said, explaining that the event is a competition in which fire fighters will showcase their skills.
She said she hopes to make the weekend-long commemoration a tradition.
“We really just wanted to say thank you,” Poole said.