*Written by Jaiden Bomar*
For the last 19 years, Runner’s Depot has organized a 5K race in support of fallen firefighters and their families. Taking place this year Sunday, Sept. 8, the race began at 7 a.m. at Hollywood Beach, Fla., giving runners the perfect view of the sunrise.
The sunrise greets the runners as they take off from the starting line at Hollywood Beach at 7 a.m., with spectators waiting to cheer runners after they cross the finish line. Among those who stay behind are police officers and their vehicles, which are displayed for pictures and to ensure the safety of attendees (Photo/Jaiden Bomar)
Behind the scenes for all 19 years has been Chuck Kirsch, who spends six months prior booking the venue, getting sponsors and advertising the event. Ever since Kirsch put together the first race, the 5K has seen tremendous growth. “The first year we had 210 people. Today, we have over 1000. With around 30… firefighters running in full gear,” Kirsch said. And although there was an unexpected downpour during the event, the participants trekked on, in support of the cause.
Runner’s Depot employee Chuck Kirsch, who presented the idea for the race, and has taken charge of planning and organizing the Fire Hero 5K for the last 19 years. Behind him are sponsors regathering their belongings after the initial pre-race rush. (Photo/Jaiden Bomar)
When asked about the event, Kirsch said, “It’s very special, very special. . . to me after 9/11. . . it’s inspirational… and next year for the 20th anniversary we want to make it even better.”
Although the Runner’s Depot Fire Hero 5K was initiated by the events of 9/11, the Fallen Firefighters Association, where all proceeds from the event go, aims to keep the story of all fallen fire heroes alive and to support their families. Many police and fire departments in the area sponsored their employees by paying their entrance fees. “Well, we work for the fire station, so they actually paid [the entry fee] for us. . . it’s a great event,” Plantation firefighter Henry Bernard said.
Firefighters run the race in full gear to honor those who passed on duty during 9/11, despite the heat and rain. “[I ran] for the fire department,” Plantation firefighter Will Murphy said. (Photo/Jaiden Bomar)
While the event was to raise money for the cause, it’s also a way to get people together to socialize and have fun. After the race ended, people gathered with music and food from Fresh Kitchen and Olive Garden, two of the event’s sponsors.
Runner Arell Gold, smiles and chats as she completes the race. “I came with Hollywood Run Club. . . I love getting up on a Sunday morning and seeing the sunrise, and it was just a fun event,” Gold said. (Photo/Jaiden Bomar)
