In remembrance of the events that transpired on September 11, 2001, The Valdosta City Fire Department will host a 9/11 Memorial 5K Run. The event is meant to pay homage to those who lost their lives or loved ones and to acknowledge all the brave first responders who passed in the line of duty. 

This is the VFD’s second annual 9/11 Memorial 5k Run to honor all the fallen public service members. "Though some walk among us that were not able to witness the tragedy of 9/11 and understand the pain, they can look upon us and know our pride for our country stands strong. Our memories of those lost will forever be immortalized within us, so we will walk, run, and honor so that we never forget," said Valdosta Fire Sergeant Melissa Roe.

Proceeds from the 5K event will go towards aiding the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in its mission of helping our nation’s heroes and their families. The foundation was established in memory of Stephen Gerard Siller, a Brooklyn Squad 1 firefighter who died savings others on September 11, 2001.

The race will have a patriotic theme, and the Fire Department encourages community members to show their support by lining the racecourse with decorated signs and/or costumes. 

The race will take place in Downtown Valdosta. The course will begin on Patterson Street. 

As a symbol of those that were called to action that day, all first responders will run free, provided they run in full gear/uniform. 

All participants that register on or before August 31 will receive a 9/11 Memorial 5K Run T-Shirt on the morning of race day.  

Registration and Entry Fees:

Pre-registration: 

• Now to August 16 - $20.00
• August 17 through August 31 - $25.00 
• September 1 through day of race - $30.00 (t-shirt not guaranteed)

$70 through August 31. After August 31, there is no more family discount - regular registration fees apply. Family discount for Parent/s children 16yrs of age or under. Waiver must be signed for all runners. 

Pre-registration for first responders running in gear/uniform is available at https://www.valdostacity.com/fire-department/911-memorial-5k, online only. 

Pre-registration for other runners is available at https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Valdosta/911Memorial5KRoadRace

Checks/cash will only be accepted on race day applications. 100% of proceeds will go to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, https://t2t.org/

During the morning of the event, runners should check-in at the registration table to receive their number and T-shirt. Day-of registration will start at 7 am. The race will officially begin at 8:00 am. 

Volunteers are welcomed. Please visit https://www.valdostacity.com/fire-department/911-memorial-5k to register as a volunteer. 

Awards: Trophies to be awarded to the top overall first responder and male and female winners as well the top twenty finishers. Though dressing up is not required, it is strongly encouraged as VFD will award the most patriotic runner. 

Refreshments: Water will be provided before, during, and after the race for everyone.

Please email Sgt. Roe at [email protected] with any questions or sponsorship inquiries.