Memorial Day Race Draws 1,300

More than 1,300 runners and walkers participated in the Ringing In Hope Walk, Run & Fun at Brambleton Town Center Monday, which was also Memorial Day.

As part of the race theme, “A Salute to Our Troops,” children participating in the 1K walk received flags to wave along the walk route. Ms. Apple Blossom Courtney Ginn greeted the crowd next, followed by a special tribute to World War II veteran Shelton Banks. Banks, 91, a Portsmouth, VA, native, served as a motor machinist’s mate in the U.S. Navy and received an honorable discharge in 1945 at the end of the war.

A presentation of colors by Leesburg Boy Scout Troop 982 and a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner followed. Hogettes signaled the beginning of the 5K and 10K race.

South Riding resident Brian Szabos won 1st place for men in the 10K race while Tatiana Sheptock, also of South Riding, came in first for the women. Top finishers in the 5K included Craig Fishman of Falls Church and Brambleton resident Sandy Brown.

Proceeds from the event will benefit three area charities whose programs serve military men, women and their families, including:

Fisher House Foundation, which provides a "home away from home" for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury

Joshua’s Hands Valiant Warrior Program, which provides handmade quilts for servicemen and women wounded while serving our country

The Special Forces Track Club, which trains youth to be leaders on and off the athletic field and has expanded their mission to help train military men and women.