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MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va – Approximately 4,000 runners competed in the 18th Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon in Downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia, May 25th.
Since 2008, the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon promotes physical fitness, community goodwill and allows people from across the U.S. to “run with Marines.”
The 13.1-mile race weaved throughout Downtown Fredericksburg, home to over 200 stores and several historic sites, where volunteers and aid stations supported competitors to finish the half marathon.
“I’ve been running the Marine Corps marathons for a lot of years,” said Jonathan Ladson, the second-place overall male runner participating in the event. “I love the challenge; I love the atmosphere; I love everything about it.”
The Marine Corps Historic Half includes several categories of competitors such as individual runners, wheelchair, handcycle athletes and military and civilian teams.
Near the latter part of the race route stands the infamous Hospital Hill, a steep 200-foot climb and grueling challenge often celebrated as a chance to show grit and determination.
“Just stay positive. Put on foot in front of the other, and you’ll get through it,” said Ladson, though admitting he "hates" it because "it does not get easier no matter how many times you do it."
“It’s one of those things where you know it’s coming and just have to take it step by step,” Ladson explained.
The combined elements test the physical and mental fortitude of runners, but also leaves them with a sense of esprit de corps.
“You meet a ton of awesome people out there. It is super fun. There's a lot of energy. Do it.,” said Conrad Carvalho, a volunteer at the baggage hospitality area who had previously ran the half marathon. “It's worth all the work you put into it.”
This year, the Marine Corps Marathon Office celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Marine Corps Marathon to occur in October; at the race, they will also celebrate with Marines the 250th Marine Corps birthday, marking a significant day for runners and Marines.
To register for the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon, please visit: https://events.hakuapp.com/events/98aef0bd88e95f3cf88d/registration_options?campaign=b537a580867ead4690ab.
| Date Taken: | 05.29.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.11.2025 12:05 |
| Story ID: | 499194 |
| Location: | QUANTICO, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 9 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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