Historic Half Glory 2020

2020 Official Historic Half Program

VIRTUAL RESULTS How to Guide to Uploading Your Data

Audio Experience Cheers & Inspiration pg. 7 Finisher Certificates Celebrate the Run pg. 26

MARINE CORPS M ARATHO

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NIZATIO

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irector D e c a R O M C om the M r f r e t t e l A

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TABLE OF CONTENTS MCMO Leadership

Virtual Checklist The ultimate guide to running virtually

Maj. Gen. Edward D. Banta Commander Marine Corps Installations Command Colonel William C. Bentley III Commander MCINCR - Marine Corps Base Quantico Col. Edward J. Danielson Commanding Officer Headquarters & Service Battalion

pg. 6

Rick Nealis Director Marine Corps Marathon Organization

Determined to Keep the Streak Alive

Angela Anderson Deputy Director Business & Marketing Cory Cole Deputy Director Plans & Operations

Iron Miler Kerry O’Neill

Ken Delahoussaye Logistics Manager

pg. 14

Marc Goldman Sponsorship/Marketing Manager Jim Jackson Business Manager

Committed to Keeping You Safe Spotlight on MCMO medical volunteers

pg. 16

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Letter from the Mayor of Fredericksburg Semper Fidelis Challenge Historic Half Audio Experience Spotlight on Main Street’s Thunder Alley Oscar Mike Award

12 18 24 26 27

Bret Schmidt Operations Manager Jheanel Walters Public Relations Coordinator Corbin Stewart Graphics Coordinator/Design Glory Contributors: Marc Goldman, Veronica Gutierrez, Kate Kovatch, Jheanel Walters, Emily Walz Photography MarathonFoto, MCMO, Communication Strategy & Operations, MCINCR - MCB Quantico

Deputy Sheriff Runs for a Higher Cause The Couple That Runs Together, Stays Together

Sponsor Appreciation Digital Finisher Certificates Submit Your Results

No Federal or Marine Corps endorsement implied.

Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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In November 2019, the Marine Corps Marathon Organization introduced the Semper Fidelis Challenge to runners who just couldn’t resist running with the Marines. More than 4,000 runners registered to run the Marine Corps Historic Half in May and the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) in October for the chance to earn a limited edition Semper Fi medal at the finish line of the 45th MCM in 2020.

The two-event challenge includes either the Historic Half or the Devil Dog Double in May 2020 and the MCM or the MCM50K on October 25, 2020. Runners will be adorned in a specially designed bib displaying their participation in the Semper Fi Challenge. Completion of both events is required to earn the special medal.

2020

Named after the Iron Mines Company, a mining and smelting operation founded in nearby Spotsylvania in 1725, the 113 runners comprising the Iron Mile Company have completed every Marine Corps Historic Half since its inception in 2008.

The Iron Mile Company is a closed group where membership must be maintained by running and finishing the Historic Half every year.

The current Company is comprised of 41 women and 72 men. The youngest runners is 36; the oldest is 72.

Iron Mile members hail from eight states and the District of Columbia, ranging from Camden Wyoming, DE in the east to Bonaire, GA in the south and out west to Bloomington, IL. More than 18 of these runners are from right here in historic Fredericksburg, VA—home of the Historic Half Weekend.

Each runner in the Iron Mile Company who finishes the virtual event will be able to add the Iron Mile Company badge to his/her finisher certificate. See page 25 for information about downloading the finisher certificate.

If you believe you should be a member of the Iron Mile Company, please contact the Marine Corps Marathon Organization at 1 800 RUN USMC. Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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Reflective gear and bright colors will ensure you’re visible to motorists since roads and major intersections won’t be closed during your race. Running apparel also has small pockets that are ideal for stashing your ID card, which you should have on you during your run. Weather can be unpredictable so double check the forecast before departing.

Stick to well-traveled routes and ensure you’re familiar with the turns, hills and intersections of your route.

You’ll be running alone so don’t put yourself in an unsafe situation.

Treadmill Runners: Spice up your virtual run by varying your speed and adding inclines along the way.

Treadmill Runners: Although you’re less concerned about visibility, comfortable and familiar running gear that prevents chaffing will help you finish strong.

Treadmill Runners: We want to see you, too. Keep your phone handy and snag a few selfies as you go.

Running alone can be mentally tough. Listening to the Historic Half Audio Experience along with your music playlist, audiobooks or podcasts at low volume can keep your brain entertained without ruining your situational awareness.

If you prefer to run in silence, try incorporating sprint intervals between blocks or electric poles to keep your mind busy.

Also, don’t discount the importance of positive selftalk as the miles become difficult.

You’ll be responsible for your event day fluids and food. Don’t skip them!

Have a replenishment plan that’s supported by your route. Plan for stops that bring you by your car or home; recruit your family to hand out Gatorade and Honey Stinger; or simply carry what you need. Fight off that late race fizzle with fluid and fuel.

Treadmill Runners: Pre-stage your fluids and food and have a plan to decrease your speed or incline, as necessary.

Treadmill Runners: Research some bingeworthy shows and knock out a few episodes while you run

Give family and friends your estimated departure and return times, as well as your planned route. Your loved ones are more likely to surprise you with a finish line party if they know your schedule.

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Carrying your phone is important for your safety and also allows you to commemorate your accomplishment with photos and videos. Did you run past a famous local landmark? Did your family set up a water/cheer station or surprise you at your finish line? Share those moments and make sure you tag them with #RunWithTheMarines so the incredible community of MCM runners can view your experience.

A virtual run means no waiting in line for a port-o-john, but that doesn’t mean nature won’t come calling.

Ensure your plan takes into account a safe location for a bathroom break.

Treadmill Runners: You have the luxury of your home but don’t forget to pause your treadmill. (It keeps going and tracking while not running)

HISTORIC HALF AUDIO EXPERIENCE The Marine Corps Historic Half Audio Experience by Motigo offers all virtual runners the opportunity to hear the authentic sounds of the actual Fredericksburg event while running in locations across the country. The special audio messages will play alongside the music or whatever else runners are listening to in their earbuds on the virtual run.

Semper 5ive, Historic Half and Devil Dog Double runners will hear specially recorded motivational messages as they reach designated mile markers. Some messages are inspirational; others will share what historic landmarks runners would be passing were they running the actual courses in Fredericksburg.

Hear the actual MCM emcee make the official start line motivational announcements. Get special cheer messages from MCM Director Rick Nealis; Col Will Bentley, Commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico; local radio personality Jessica Cash; and others.

Runners can also invite their own friends and family to record cheer messages specifically for them.

FOR YOUR VIRTUAL RUN 1.

2.

BEFORE YOUR RUN, OPEN MOTIGO THEN CLICK “START EVENT” & YOU'RE GOOD TO GO (MAKE SURE CELLULAR AND GPS IS ENABLED FOR MOTIGO)

TO DOWNLOAD APP & SOLICIT CHEERS: 1.

DOWNLOAD THE MOTIGO APP, AVAILABLE FOR IOS AND ANDROID.

2.

SIGN UP FOR THE FREE ACCOUNT.

3.

TURN ON ANY OTHER MUSIC OR OTHER FITNESS APPS YOU TYPICALLY USE MOTIGO WON'T INTERFERE WITH THEM.

3.

CHOOSE "RACE." ON THE NEXT SCREEN, PICK "SELECT EVENT", THEN CHOOSE YOUR “DISTANCE”

4.

START MOVING! THE MESSAGES WILL COME ON PERIODICALLY, AND YOUR OTHER AUDIO THAT'S PLAYING WILL AUTOMATICALLY LOWER IN VOLUME.

4.

SHARE EVENT WITH YOUR OWN PERSONAL LINK: INVITE YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO PRE-RECORD CHEERS THAT WILL PLAY DURING YOUR RACE. THEY CAN DOWNLOAD THE MOTIGO APP OR GO TO OUR WEBSITE WWW.GETMOTIGO.COM AND “RECORD CHEERS” VIA WEB!

WHEN YOU'RE DONE, PRESS "FINISH EVENT." ALL YOUR MESSAGES WILL BE ARCHIVED IN “MY PAST EVENTS” WHERE YOU CAN LISTEN AGAIN.

Other questions? Motigo has a super helpful “How It Works” videos and FAQ page.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out directly to Motigo – info@getmotigo.com Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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April Peterson is the co-owner of River Outfitters and the current President of the Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street (FVMS) group. She has been instrumental in spearheading the efforts to mobilize the local business community along several blocks of the Marine Corps Historic Half course known as Thunder Alley. While runners won’t be experiencing this boisterous gauntlet in person this year, April shares details that will help to envision Thunder Alley wherever a virtual run is happening.

rents a bubble maker and blows bubbles from the stoop of his kitchen store.

DD Lecky, co-owner of LibertyTown Art Studio, dresses as Lady Liberty and cheers for runners every year on Thunder Alley.

Bob Whittingham, owner of Whittingham, rents a bubble maker and blows bubbles from the stoop of his kitchen store.

What should runners envision about Thunder Alley as they run virtually?

What inspired the Thunder Alley idea?

The FVMS founded Thunder Alley in 2016. Since the course comes through Downtown Fredericksburg early on a Sunday morning, businesses are usually closed.

Main Street saw an opportunity to market our historic downtown and demonstrate our community pride while cheering on runners at a point in the event when they need support.

Business owners are encouraged to stand out and cheer. Runners’ families are invited to bring their lawn chairs and hang out on the “Alley.” We pay for a local rock band to perform and invite colonialdressed dancers to perform on the sidewalks. We want runners to be surprised when they turn the corner from Charlotte Street onto Caroline Street, to get a jolt of energy from the crowds and leave with an appreciation for Downtown Fredericksburg. We want to show the heart of our downtown!

Spotlight

The night before the Historic Half, Main Street restaurants offer dinner specials for runners to load up on carbs. Businesses will also offer “Come Back to Visit” promotions encouraging runners to return and enjoy Downtown Fredericksburg. #VirtuallyUnstoppable

main Street's

thunder alley

How do local area businesses get involved?

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on

Thunderous applause! Everyone lined on the street cheering runners with banners, costumes and cow bells handed out by Main Street businesses. A jolt to the system and a great surprise for the runners who need encouragement at this stage in the course.

Why is Thunder Alley such an important part of the Historic Half course?

This is the “Historic” Half – named because of the history found in the heart of Downtown Fredericksburg!

People lining on Main Street waving flags and celebrating is allAmerican. It’s a hometown feel that offers a unique experience for runners coming from all over the country.

Practically speaking, it’s perfectly timed. Downtown Fredericksburg falls nearly at the half-way point of the course and is the last milestone before the challenging Hospital Hill.

Runners need a boost that reminds them why they are running and we are proud that we can provide that in Thunder Alley!

We are proud to host it in our community.

My husband Keith and I own River Rock Outfitter and we cheer on the runners every year on Thunder Alley. DD Lecky, co-owner of LibertyTown Art Studio, dresses as Lady Liberty and cheers for runners every year on Thunder Alley. Bob Whittingham, owner of Whittingham,

And they look forward to the return of the runners in 2021.

To learn more about the Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street group, visit fredericksburgdowntown.org/fvms

Oscar Mike Award | 2020 “The values, ethics and integrity of the Corps shine through each and every Marine I've had the honor to meet.”

Howard Thomas started running while he was on active duty in the United States Navy, then stopped when he separated in 1995.

It wasn’t until 2012, when he decided to participate in a local 5K that he started running again.

A year later, Thomas participated in a non-directed kidney donation, which eventually saved the life of a woman in Georgia. On April 15, 2013 while recovering at home, news of the Boston Marathon bombing led him to register for his first Marine Corps Historic Half.

“I probably should not have attempted a half marathon one month [after the surgery], but I started in the last corral and figured that I could walk the course if necessary,” said Thomas, who finished with a time of 2:38:40.

“It actually went really well and I didn’t have any problems at all.”

Thomas went on to run the Historic Half two more times in 2014 and 2016, before taking over the operations of the Beer Garden at the Historic Half and Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) Finish Festivals and managing the popular post-run destination during both event weekends alongside fellow members of the Fredericksburg Area Running Club (FARC).

As the Club’s treasurer, Thomas is responsible for obtaining the license for the Beer Gardens and overseeing the entire production, a responsibility “he takes very seriously,” says Aimee Weems, the president of FARC. “Once February/August come around, Howard will go out of his way to deliver payments, pick up beer, cups, etc. in order to be sure FARC’s responsibilities with the Historic Half and the MCM are met,” Weems said.

“And come event morning, he gets up along with the Marines to set up the Beer Garden. He is the first there and the last to leave.”

Thomas will be recognized with the Oscar Mike Award for his outstanding support of the Marine Corps Historic Half, the sport of running and for being a champion of the local Fredericksburg community.

“I am humbled and honored [and] always proud to work with the Marines,” stated Thomas. “The values, ethics and integrity of the Corps shine through each and every Marine I’ve had the honor to meet.”

According to Weems, “There couldn’t be anyone more worthy.”

Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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- Colleen Thompson

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SUFFOLK COUNTY DEPUTY SHERIFF

RUNS FOR A

HIGHER CAUSE Cut from almost every sports team in junior high, Colleen Thompson started running so she could join the only option she had left – track.

“I wasn’t very good but I had fun and enjoyed being a part of something,” said Thompson, who hurdled and sprinted her way through high school.

“I have always held our service men and women in high regards, as true heroes. I know the sacrifices they make,” said Thompson, a Deputy Sheriff for Suffolk County, NY and a part-time police officer in the village of Head of the Harbor. “I love running with the Marines because it’s a chance to celebrate how amazing they are.”

The New York native continued running as a form of exercise and to maintain her peace of mind. While she says she never had the urge to compete in races, the occasional participation in a local 5K or 10K led Thompson to trying her first half marathon in 2007. And that’s when it clicked. She was a better distance runner than a sprinter.

She ran a few more half marathons before setting her sights on completing a marathon. “Little did I know that I was about to catch the marathon bug!” declared Thompson, who made her marathon debut in 2011.

“By October 2013, I found my way to the starting line of what would ultimately become my most favorite marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM),” she shared.

Thompson grew up on Long Island surrounded by military families including her own. Her dad is a retired Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer and her brother is a 1st Sergeant in the Army.

All three are in law enforcement.

beyond healing. I started to cry tears of relief and was overjoyed to have had a good experience.”

Thompson credits her family and friends for keeping her motivated during a race and calls her mom her biggest cheerleader. She also thinks about the kids she supports through the charity she runs with, Cops for Kids with Cancer.

“Anytime I start to doubt myself, I remember why I started,” said Thompson. “I think of all the people who can’t run for various reasons and I push for them. I think of how the kids who are fighting cancer are true warriors and that no matter how bad I may struggle on the run, I need to push on.

You always have to keep moving forward and get to that finish.”

Since her first marathon in 2011, Thompson has completed 29 marathons with number 30 planned for Boston, a marathon she first ran in April 2013.

“I had just crossed the finish line about a minute before the bombing,” said Thompson, who ran again the following year and called it her hardest race.

This year will be Thompson’s seventh Marine Corps Historic Half Weekend as she tackles the Devil Dog Double. “The Marines are welcoming and so is the city of Fredericksburg.

It’s one of my favorite half marathon courses and that includes the wear blue mile and Hospital Hill.”

For Thompson, a #RunWithTheMarines is a patriotic event that will always have a piece of her heart.

“Physically I was fine, but emotionally I was falling apart. I was anxious, but I took my time and just made my way to the finish. Crossing that finish line was Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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This Iron

is Determined to Keep

“I try to make running an expression of gratitude for life, for health, for the ability to run. The military’s presence is also inspiring to me,” “The thoughts of those who have sacrificed for me, including those who have given their lives and also those who have been injured and would love to have the opportunity that I have. My aches and pains feel quite small in comparison.”

Kerry O’Neill 14

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n Miler

p the Streak Alive Kerry O’Neill’s first attempt at long distance running was the inaugural Marine Corps Historic Half in his hometown of Fredericksburg, VA. “When Fredericksburg was named as the site for the Historic Half, a colleague of mine told me she was going to run it and asked me to run with her. I knew so little I had to ask her what the distance was,” says O’Neill, who was a high jumper and hurdler in high school and basketball player in college and internationally.

O’Neill, 53, has since participated in every Historic Half, maintaining membership in the exclusive Iron Mile Company of dedicated runners. “It’s a real honor,” he says. “Staying in the club has motivated me to run, even years when I would have skipped for various reasons, including lack of preparation and coming off a broken ankle.”

As the East Coast Director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a staff member for almost 29 years, O’Neill has been guided by his coaches, his faith and his motivation when running.

“I try to make running an expression of gratitude for life, for health, for the ability to run. The military’s presence is also inspiring to me,” noted O”Neill. “The thoughts of those who have sacrificed for me, including those who have given their lives and also those who have been injured and would love to have the opportunity that I have. My aches and pains feel quite small in comparison.”

While the current global health crisis has brought numerous changes and challenges to scheduled events, O’Neill is still determined to keep his streak alive – even without the energy from the start and finish crowds and Marines and the experience of running with thousands of other motivated individuals.

He’ll be completing his 13th Historic Half virtually in his own neighborhood where friends will be cheering from their front doors and setting up water points along the way. It may not be the same experience, but according to O’Neill, he’ll definitely have more hills to conquer this year before returning to the Marine Corps Historic Half start line in 2021.

MARINE CORPS MARATHON ORGANIZATION

COMMITTED TO KEEPING YOU SAFE

As our nation raises its collective voice to thank doctors, nurses, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and ďŹ rst responders for their seless contributions to our communities, the Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) would like to thank the medical volunteers, to whom we owe a debt of gratitude, for their time and expertise on event day.

Let's meet three medical professionals whose commitment to the MCMO and its community of runners help make events safe and unforgettable.

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Your advice to others?

Dr. Charles H. Stubin, MD, has volunteered for both the Marine Corps Historic Half and the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM). A steadfast supporter for the last 18 years, his medical expertise is crucial on event day, ensuring that runners receive appropriate care as quickly as possible. He began his medical training in Family Medicine and is now a practicing Obstetrician/ Gynecologist.

I think anyone who loves running, who loves the Marine Corps, who loves to see others striving for big goals should volunteer for the MCM; there is a role for every person to help. Find how your talents connect you to others, overcome challenges, find confidence and strive for big goals. We can all find a role and right now that is defeating the Coronavirus!

Why do you volunteer?

It keeps me connected to several things that are important to me. First of all to my father, who served in the Marine Corps, and encouraged me as a boy to join him on his morning runs and instilled in me a love of running. I later joined the cross country team in high school and I ran the MCM in 1985. Volunteering keeps me connected to Family Medicine when I treat runners in the aid station. I feel connected to the sport of running and the community of runners since I am no longer able to run.

Megan Moran is a physical therapist and assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Marymount University. She offers her unique skills and knowledge to numerous organizations and events throughout the year including Fairfax County High School sports preparticipation physicals and Marymount University’s yearly service trip to Nicaragua to enhance the quality of physical therapy services and on campus activities that support our community.

It can’t be easy. What are some challenges you face?

What is your most vivid memory from your time as a Marine Corps Marathon volunteer?

Volunteering is challenging because no two races are alike and the conditions create different problems in the aid station each year. You have to quickly gain rapport with your race day team, size up their skill sets and call on them to employ their skills and know when to ask for help. The amazing organizational skills of the Marine Corps give us the training, tools and backup to make us successful in treating the runners.

I would like to particularly mention Drs. Bruce Adams, Fran O’Connor and Marc Madsen as individuals who have been mentors and role models to help me in my small role.

After 18 years, I bet you’ve saved a few lives.

My most vivid memory is treating two runners in the heat deck at the Marine Corps Historic Half in 2015, one of whom collapsed 100 meters from the finish and had a core temperature of 107.7. We got his temperature down, he became oriented and we sent him on to the hospital for further care. Capt. Adams went over everything with the team before the race started and when the moment came I had the confidence to run the resuscitation.

My most vivid memories are the emotions that come with race day. The day begins with excitement and energy to help assemble the medical tent and to be connected with so many other selfless, dedicated organizers and volunteers. As the day moves along, my emotions switch to feeling extremely proud of the runners and their ability to achieve their goal. The pride carries over to our medical teams as we work so hard to keep the runners safe.

The day ends with a feeling of gratefulness and accomplishment. Volunteering can cause fatigue, both emotionally and physically, but the positive community outcomes far outweigh the individual fatigue.

I am so thankful to work with talented individuals to make the MCM a safe event.

Why the MCM? It’s a great Organization to be a part of. The event is well organized, the employees and volunteers are high energy, the Organization is supportive and appreciates its volunteers and you have the opportunity to interact with others

from around the globe. There is something that everyone can do to support the race and because many volunteers return year after year, you have the opportunity to develop lasting friendships. Finally, it is an opportunity to support the Marines and many charitable organizations!

Dr. Matthew Gage is a professor and Athletic Training Program Director at Liberty University. He is the recipient of teaching awards from numerous colleges and universities and also served as the President of the Virginia Athletic Trainers’ Association from 2016-2018.

Why is volunteering important to you?

I volunteer to give back to others just as those before me volunteered for my benefit, to network and to introduce my students to volunteer opportunities. My most vivid memories of the MCM are working with my students as we provide care to the runners.

I also volunteer at the MCM to honor all of the men and women who are or have served our country such as my father, a Marine Vietnam veteran, and my son, Naval Academy Class of 2022. I was unable to serve in the military myself due to physical reasons but the MCM is a very small way I can honor my dad’s service.

What is challenging about volunteering?

The greatest challenge volunteering at the MCM is the limited medical supplies.

Although this is a challenge at times it also forces you to be resourceful.

Why should more people consider volunteering with the Marine Corps Marathon?

It is a great opportunity to give back to the men and women who defend our freedom. It also provides an opportunity to collaborate with health care professionals from different disciplines.

To all first responders, including the MCMO community of medical volunteers, thank you.

Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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The Couple That runs stays together The traditional first wedding anniversary gift is paper, the fifth is wood. At 15 years of marriage, couples exchange crystal. Anna and Colin Throm flout those old traditions.

Their gift to each other is health and fitness and they’ve created a new tradition of celebrating their love by running the Marine Corps Historic Half.

Ahead of the 2019 Marine Corps Historic Half, the Throms treated themselves to a luxury hotel room, an extended stay in Fredericksburg and time to explore the historic downtown charm. They committed to making the Historic Half part of their wedding anniversary celebration for years to come.

As much as this is a story about love and running, it’s a story about love of running.

A his and her’s tale of how a rekindled love of running has fanned new dreams and goals for one loving couple.

Colin Throm, 52, began running as a boy with his best friend, inspired by his friend’s father, a former Marine and avid runner. He met his wife, Anna, during a running “off-phase.”

“We didn’t really connect with each other’s love of running until later in our marriage,” explained Colin.

That all changed when Anna was inspired to run her first half marathon. As he patiently waited to snap photos of Anna crossing the finish line, he resolved to run her next half marathon with her six months later – despite never running more than seven miles consecutively before.

When Anna announced her decision to complete a marathon in honor of her 50th birthday, Colin joined her, proving to himself he too was a marathon runner.

According to Colin, Anna is a faster distance runner but they enjoy running together and have explored methods, like timed periods of walking or running separately depending on their goals.

“Running has been good for our marriage,” explained Colin. “We spend a lot of our time together and it’s good to have a common goal to work for. As an artist, I can get heady and reclusive – into my work, so I love to have a physical goal to share.”

He found a partner in Anna who shares the same passion for attaining shared goals.

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s together, Anna Throm, 50, was a self-described occasional runner who was keen on owning “a 12-month running habit.” Inspired by her sole sister Sonja, her running mentor, Anna began consistently training through the elements for her first half marathon. Six months after the first triumph, she was running her second half marathon, this time with husband, Colin.

While a healthy lifestyle and outdoor adventures were always an important part of their relationship, Anna confessed, “My life is always better when running regularly is part of my lifestyle.”

“We spend a lot of our time together and it’s good to have a common goal to work for. As an artist, I can get heady and reclusive – into my work, so I love to have a physical goal to share.”

A hiatus from running events in 2017 made her realize that having a, “rhythm of carefully planned races throughout the year,” keeps her motivated.

When coronavirus threatened setbacks and obstacles to that plan, Anna forged ahead, undeterred.

Her relationship with Colin has also positively benefited from running.

“Running has enhanced our lifestyle on all levels, and yes, it has brought us closer together,” she explained.

Training together, supporting each other’s goals, and if the situation dictates, respecting each other’s autonomy are reasons Anna believes she and Colin are an excellent match.

“Running has helped us evolve into a stronger, more empowered couple,” said Anna.

Despite maintaining separate medal displays, Anna and Colin’s individualism and unique skills blend seamlessly throughout the race prep cycle.

Colin’s cheerful spirit, motivation and meticulous care when preparing their hydration and snacks are the everyday details that give life to Anna’s big picture ideas and strategies. In 2019, this super duo completed three Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) events: the 17.75K, Marine Corps Historic Half, and 44th Marine Corps Marathon.

The Marine Corps Historic Half has transformed into a meaningful way for the Throms to celebrate their love, lifestyle and goals.

“Running the Historic Half was a lot of fun,” said Anna. “We ran through every sprinkler, highfived everyone we could, pet dogs, had donut and mimosas and took our time through the Blue Mile.”

When the MCMO announced that the 2020 Marine Corps Historic Half would transition to a virtual event because of COVID-19, the Throms decided to keep their tradition alive, even if that meant the joyful excitement they shared with other runners in 2019 would be missing this year.

“It makes sense to run this year, even virtually,” explained Colin, knowing full well he’ll miss the fun and energy of the event from spectators and other runners.

In Anna’s opinion, running the virtual event demonstrates their fortitude, as well as her commitment to her personal and lifetime goals, even if she’ll miss the camaraderie and inclusiveness of running with nearly 10,000 others.

Although the Throms are commemorating this anniversary without throngs of spectators, or post-race high-fives, it’s clear they’re committed to each other and their goals. As Anna explained, “Virtual running is how we are uniting as a community while respecting social distancing.”

We look forward to seeing Anna and Colin at the start line in 2021! #InThisTogether

Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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Best of luck with your Virtual Runs and looking forward to seeing you run in Fredericksburg again in 2021!

For every step taken, we’re here for you.

"A little rebellion now and then is a good thing."

- Thomas Jefferson

OPENING MAY 2020 Mary Washington Healthcare has two state-ofthe-art hospitals, three emergency departments, 50+ healthcare facilities and wellness services, and over 120 years of caring for the community.

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Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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WITH APPRECIATION ®

PLUMBI

NG

We Help You Go the Distance— Race Day and Every Day Benefit from a lifelong relationship with a financial institution that makes your financial goals a priority.

#RunWithNavyFed Join today! navyfederal.org

Help when you need it with 24/7 access to stateside member reps Convenience with digital banking*

Proud Sponsor of the

Personal support at more than 335 branches worldwide Federally insured by NCUA. *Message and data rates may apply. Visit navyfederal.org for more information. © 2020 Navy Federal NFCU 13810 (3-20)

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#VirtuallyUnstoppable

CONGRATS on RUNNING the HISTORIC HALF! BRING YOUR HISTORIC HALF BIB INTO VA RUNNER for

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YOUR NEXT PURCHASE!

1993 Carl D. Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401

14210 Smoketown Rd Woodbridge, VA 22192

SOME EXCLUSIONS APPLY. PLEASE SHOW ASSOCIATE COUPON & BIB TO REDEEM. 6/30/2020 CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS, DISCOUNTS, OR RUN REWARDS. EXPIRES 6/30/2019

We’re here for you, in our centers and telerehab!

More than 40 locations throughout Virginia

855.345.6300 | selectphysicaltherapy.com Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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DIGITAL CERTIFICATES FOR HISTORIC HALF VIRTUAL FINISHERS

Digital finisher certificates will be available for all runners who submit finisher data. Accessible through the MCM website, the certificate includes a grand display of the runner’s name and finish time.

Runners will be able to individualize the certificates by selecting up to four personal achievement badges.

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#VirtuallyUnstoppable

The customizable finisher certificates offer multiple category options for badges including first timer, personal record, military spouse and Fredericksburg resident. Certificates may be downloaded and printed or shared on social media.

Congratulations on your participation in the Marine Corps Historic Half Weekend virtual events. The MCM Organization is proud to unveil several new upgraded features for virtual participants including a downloadable bib, results upload feature and a printable/ shareable ďŹ nisher certiďŹ cate. Follow instructions below to access these special services.

Marine Corps Historic Half | 2020

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POHANKA NISSAN OF FREDERICKSBURG

NO MATTER THE CHALLENGES BEFORE US

WE WILL ALWAYS

STRIVE TO WIN! SOCIAL DISTANCING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE SO DISTANT

Pohanka Nissan would like to acknowledge all of you who have prepared for this year’s Historic Half, but will not get the chance to participate. As our nation prepares to re-open, we want you to know that we are here to support you.

We know that fewer people will be traveling via the airlines, which means your summer vacation may be a short road trip within Virginia or a neighboring state.

Whether it’s a service payment plan to help keep your repair bill down, or an upgrade to a new or newer vehicle at a lower monthly payment, Pohanka Nissan can help keep you on the road. Good luck and be safe.

2020 NISSAN ROGUE

We are happy to show our support for our men and women in the U.S. Military and for everyone affiliated with the Historic Half Marathon.

Tim Pohanka, General Manager Pohanka Nissan in Fredericksburg

TAKE I-95 TO EXIT 126, THEN HEAD NORTH 1/2 MILE ON US 1

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#VirtuallyUnstoppable

5200 JEFFERSON DAVIS HWY, FREDERICKSBURG, VA 22408 1-800-764-2652 www.pohanka-nissan.com