White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery, long known for its on-site events to honor U.S. veterans, is hosting the Sixth Annual Patriots Race, a running/walking event at its location in Troy on Sunday, September 10, to benefit the Michigan Wounded & Returning Warriors Program, a 501(C)3, American Legion member organization supporting veterans. This year's event marks the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorism attacks. Accordingly, there will be a moment of silence at 9:03 a.m. in memory of the 9/11 Tower 2 attack.
The Patriots Race will begin at 9 a.m. with a 10k and 5k timed race followed by a 1M run/walk. (Discounts are available for veterans and groups). Participants will pass by monuments to veterans from WWI, WWII, the Korean, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf Wars as well as MIA combat troops. Notably, an awards ceremony will follow the race.
"Dedicated runners and walkers compliment us on the race course and how much they look forward to the Patriots Race," said David R. Krall, White Chapel vice president. "Our 210-acre park-like setting is ideal for the races. Race experts believe the White Chapel Patriots Race course may be the flattest and fastest in southeast Michigan."
Other highlights include:
• The entire race course will be lined with 500 American flags
• Gold, silver and bronze commemorative Dog Tags will be awarded to top race finishers
• Each race/ walk participant will receive a T-shirt with the Patriots ribbon logo
• Participation Medal Dog Tags will go to each participant
• Prizes will be awarded for the most patriotic attire
• Patriots Race Expo
• Food
• Special children's activities
"Families, veterans and the community are invited to help us support the Michigan Wounded & Returning Warriors Project," Krall added.
For additional information or to register online, visit www.ThePatriotsRace.com. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event can call 248-362-7670.
White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery (www.whitechapelcemetery.com). is located at 621 W. Long Lake Rd. (west of I-75) in Troy.
