On September 11, America will pause to remember the events that occurred on that fateful day 21 years ago. The day before, on September 10, a community will gather to pay homage to the heroes of that day and the present in a race that brings thousands together in solidarity across the country each year.

The Think Big Youth Organization, in partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation, will host the Heroes 9/11 Shadow Run to commemorate those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and honor those who make the brave choice daily to continue to serve. The race will begin at 9 a.m. and will take place at Bryant Commons Park in Hinesville.

Heroes Run events have been taking place nationwide since 2008. This will be the first year that the national race will make its way to the coastal Georgia area. Tracy Jefferson, Think Big founder and communications coordinator for TMF Hinesville, understands how significant the event is for the residents who resonate with the themes of unity, resilience, and reverence that are shared between the run and both organizations. 

“This is a monumental moment in people’s lives across the nation,” Jefferson said in regards to the event.

The “shadow” aspect of the run refers to its size, meaning that certain elements will be tailored so that the race will meet community needs while still serving its purpose like its national counterparts. Participants can choose to walk, run, or ruck the 5K distance alongside their fellow servicemembers, family and friends.

Patriotic gear, emblems of pride and comfortable racing apparel are welcome and highly encouraged.

For more information about the significance of the 9/11 Heroes Run, visit https://www.travismanion.org/events/911-heroes-run/ or visit TMF Hinesville on Facebook.

To register for the Heroes Run event in Hinesville, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1xMMPoQY__cnP4iBQPTrox9BeTpIj3XpTOqRzDJJ6arI/edit and complete the registration form.