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Minot Airmen train for AF Marathon

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
  • 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Minot Airmen have banded together to form a team representing both Warbirds and Rough Riders alike in this year's Air Force Marathon.

The annual event is held at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, on the third Saturday in September each year in celebration of the U.S. Air Force. This year event marks the 14th running of the AF Marathon and will be held on Sept. 18, which is the 63rd anniversary of the birth of the Air Force.

"This is a chance to do something I've never done before," said Capt. Kera Rolsen, 23rd Bomb Squadron executive officer and team member. "We're carrying on a long family tradition."

In reflection of tradition, each year one aircraft is chosen to be highlighted during the marathon. It is also featured the unique finisher's medal presented to each race participant. This year, an aircraft which has been the backbone of the manned strategic bomber force for more than 40 years will be on the medal. It is none other than the 5th Bomb Wing's B-52H Stratofortress.

"With a medal like that, how could you say no?" Captain Rolsen said.

The team consists of 30 members from squadrons all across the base.

"Team members are anywhere from one-stripers to captains," said Capt. Ruben Velez, 5th Operations Group intelligence officer and team member. "We're still working on the funding issues and may be looking forward to fundraisers coming up."

Captain Velez said if the funds don't come together, they will select team members who have demonstrated they will for sure complete the marathon.

But for the members of the team, it's not just about participating in the marathon, it's about learning new techniques and improving ones overall fitness in a group setting.

"Some people are just coming out and running with us for the camaraderie," said Captain Rolsen. "We meet every weekend, but it has usually been at Oak Park."

"Fitness is a huge part of our training as well," added Captain Rolsen. "We help people with fitness and nutrition tips."

The marathon features five different types of races so all levels of runners have an opportunity to participate. These races include the traditional 26.2-mile marathon, a half marathon, wheelchair, 10k and 5k.

The course traverses historical places on Wright-Pat AFB, including the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the Air Force Institute of Technology, Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command, the Wright-Pat AFB flight line, Huffman Prairie Flying Field and the Wright Brothers Memorial Monument.

For more information on this year's marathon, visit the Web page at www.usafmarathon.com.