San Marino’s traditional Fourth of July celebrations are being modified in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and things are no different for the 16th annual J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5K run.
In observance of social distancing, runners will this year participate in the event virtually, so to speak. They can either complete the 5-kilometer distance on a treadmill at home, or do it individually outdoors. Participants have until July 2 to register for the event, which is hosted by the J.P. Blecksmith Leadership Foundation in observance of the San Marino native, a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Marines who was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq, on Nov. 11, 2004.
“Our reach is any other similar charitable matter or organization to perpetuate and to honor the legacy of J.P. Blecksmith through public charitable works,” the organization wrote. “Our mission is to keep his memory and legacy of leadership alive.”
Proceeds and donations help fund several memorial scholarships, as well as supporting veterans’ memorials throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
Runners will have from 6 a.m. Friday, July 3, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 5, to complete their 5-kilometer run. Times can be submitted with or without confirming with a fitness tracker link; however, to be eligible for any awards, the fitness tracker is required. Times must be posted by 9 p.m. Thursday, July 9, for consideration.
Awards will be mailed out for the top three finishers among men and women; there will be no age group awards.
Planners advise participants to map out a course ahead of time, given the lack of a plotted course for this year. Runners are also encouraged to share videos and photos on Instagram by either tagging the foundation’s account — @JPBLF — or using the hashtag #JPB5K2020.
Registration includes a printable race bib, an official J.P. Blecksmith Memorial Virtual 5K shirt, a printable finisher’s certificate, a digital swag bag with discount coupons for race sponsors, and entry into a variety of drawings and raffles.
For registration information and links for posting race times, visit jpblecksmith.org/5k.html.
Runners on Their Own for J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5K
