Utah National Guard Marathon Team: Forging Bonds and Embracing Challenges on the Run

Photo By Keith Garner | National Guard athletes race in the 46th annual Lincoln Marathon, which also serves as the National Guard Marathon Team trials, held May 7, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska. More than 230 National Guard Airman and Soldiers from across the country competed for spots on the "All Guard" Marathon Team.  

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA, UNITED STATES

05.06.2023

Story by Keith Garner 

Utah National Guard Public Affairs

Title: Utah National Guard Marathon Team: Forging Bonds and Embracing Challenges on the Run

Introduction:
As the sun rose on a crisp morning, more than 230 Airmen and Soldiers from the National Guard, representing all 50 states, three U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, converged in Lincoln, Nebraska for the prestigious marathon. MAJ Lex Grimley with the 144th Medical Company and SGT Bronco Hollowell with the 213th Support Company had remarkable finishes, with finish times of 03:00:20 and 02:49:15, respectively. These two exceptional individuals embodied the Spirit of the Utah National Guard, representing the principles of physical fitness, self-discipline, and esprit de corps.

The Military and Marathons:
Marathons and military service have a rich history intertwined with discipline, endurance, and camaraderie. Dating back to ancient Greece, the marathon distance itself pays homage to the legendary Greek messenger Pheidippides, who ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to deliver a momentous victory message. Inspired by this historic feat, marathons have become emblematic of perseverance and the human Spirit, qualities deeply valued within the military.

The Lincoln Marathon:
The Lincoln Marathon holds immense importance for the National Guard, for the first time in over three decades, representatives from all 54 National Guard jurisdictions participated in the race. The Lincoln Marathon stands apart as a community event where Guard members run alongside those they serve. This unique competition showcases the Guard's commitment to their communities and highlights the fact that Guard members are ordinary individuals who simultaneously fulfill their civilian and part-time military responsibilities.

The National Guard Military Competitions Program:
Under the purview of the National Guard Military Competitions Program, both the Marathon Team and Endurance Team, which aim to promote physical fitness, self-discipline, and esprit de corps while supporting recruitment and retention efforts within the communities they compete in. The Lincoln Marathon held additional significance as the time trials for the national All Guard Marathon Team. SFC Douglas Stephens, the Nebraska Army National Guard's National Guard Military Competitions Coordinator, highlighted the role of the Lincoln Marathon as the qualifying ground for the national team, emphasizing the dedication and commitment demonstrated by all participants in training to complete such a difficult event.

Uniting Community and Service:
The Utah National Guard Marathon Team is a formidable group of individuals who share a passion for both military service and running. While most of their training was conducted individually, the team came together periodically to strengthen their bonds and participate in races as a united force. The team's participation in the Lincoln Marathon not only enhances their physical fitness but also builds enduring partnerships and strengthens community bonds.

The Impact of the Marathon Team:
This year's marathon boasts a record number of female participants, with 63 women registered for the race. This remarkable achievement underscores the inclusive and diverse nature of the National Guard. As the field of more than 230 Guard members embarks on this marathon, they forge bonds of unity and exhibit the strength and dedication that define the Guard's ethos.

Conclusion:
The Utah National Guard Marathon Team's participation in the Lincoln National Guard Marathon represents a powerful union of military service and physical endurance. As they join forces with more than 230 Airmen and Soldiers from all 54 National Guard jurisdictions, they forge bonds of unity and inspire others to embrace challenges and strive for greatness. The Lincoln National Guard Marathon becomes a testament to the enduring spirit and indomitable will of the National Guard, leaving a lasting impact on participants and spectators alike.

The team is always looking for anyone interested in all levels of fitness and running. For more information on the Utah National Guard Marathon Team, contact MAJ Grimley at [e-mail]

• Date Taken: 05.06.2023
• Date Posted: 08.03.2023 09:57
• Story ID: 450374
• Location: LINCOLN, NEBRASKA, US