Imagine running a marathon, giving it your all and ultimately crossing the finish line. Now imagine crossing that finish line and being met by a United States Marine who shakes your hand and places a medal around your neck. This is the Marine Corps Marathon.
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) helps promote the hard work of military veterans and their dedication to our country. The MCM’s history spans four decades, and it all started with Colonel Jim Fowler, who had one big idea.
“After the Vietnam War, the popularity of the military services declined in the eyes of many,” Fowler stated. “At the same time, distance running was gaining considerable positive attention.”
It was because of this that Fowler got the idea of creating an event that would showcase the Marine Corps. A successful first year led to the continuation of the MCM, as the event was well received by the community and proved to be beneficial to the Marine Corps.
The mission of the MCM is to promote physical fitness, generate community goodwill and showcase the organizational skills of the Marine Corps, all of which are reflected in each MCM, Historic Half and MCM event-series race. This commitment to the sport of running and dedication to providing quality events to the public ensures a bright future for the MCM.
The 17.75K marathon commemorates the spirit of the Marine Corps and the year that it was established: 1775. This race is held every March in Dumfries, Va., outside Montclair Tabernacle Church near the Marine Corps base in Quantico. Runners who complete the race receive guaranteed access to the sold-out MCM event, an exciting race with a high turnout.
The very popular Historic Half Marathon has attracted many tourists to Fredericksburg and given it the reputation of being a fashionable spring-weekend getaway. The Historic Half Marathon challenges runners with its 13.1-mile course.
Hospital Hill has become famous as a 200-foot rise in elevation that occurs between Miles 10 and 11 of the course. Passionate runners do their best to conquer this difficult segment of the race. At the finish line, U.S. Marines cheer on racers and encourage them.
U-Haul has been a proud supporter of the Marine Corps Marathon for several years.
“U-Haul trucks are everywhere on race weeks,” stated Ken Delahoussaye, Logistics Manager for the Marine Corps Marathon. “U-Haul trucks are placed at each water point every two miles and also serve as medical aid stations and storage for supplies, food, water, and finish line items. Your trucks cover 26.2 miles of support!”
Have you attended a Marine Corps Marathon? Have you spotted any U-Haul trucks? Please share your experiences in the comments below. To find out more about the ways U-Haul is assisting in the communities we serve visit our In the Community page.
