A race to remember

Annual city manager's run shifts focus to veterans

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Hundreds of runners took to the streets for the 39th annual City Manager’s 10-Mile Race to Remember Those Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice on May 24.  

“It was a terrific turnout,” City Manager Jack Schnirman said. “Long Beach is a great place for running because the city is flat, scenic, and has the best running surface around — the Long Beach boardwalk.”

“It was a spectacular day for the race, and I think that was certainly reflected in the turnout,” added 1156Run founder Keith Grant.

Grant, who served nine years in the Army and two tours of duty in Iraq, carried an American Flag throughout the entire 10-mile race to honor the veterans group Team Red, White and Blue.

The race is dedicated to the memory of race founder Ralph Kaplan. It’s held on Memorial Day weekend every year in partnership with the VFW, Schirman said.

This year, the name was changed from “City Manager’s 10-mile Trophy Run” to directly reflect the importance of the holiday.

“It’s another opportunity to honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice,” Schnirman said.

“What the [Recreation Department] did with the name change was fantastic,” Grant added. “It added that reminder for everybody participating what the weekend is about. It was a great kick-off to the summer and a celebration for the community, but it also reminded everyone what the holiday is about.”

In addition to the name change, the Recreation Department welcomed local veteran service organizations to the race to share information about the work they do in the community.

Aside form Team Red, White and Blue, Long Beach-based nonprofit wellness center Peaceful Minds also participated. They offer free treatment to combat veterans of Iraq and Afganistan.