The bitter cold and rain couldn't stop determined runners from participating in this year’s Army Marathon.

The marathon, half-marathon, and 5K races were held Sunday, March 1 and spanned an area from Killeen to Temple. Over 1,500 runners participated in the event, which was organized to celebrate the achievements, sacrifices, and traditions of our armed forces, police, firefighters, and other first responders.

Matt Buchhorn of Sherman placed first among the men in the 26.2-mile marathon with a time of 2 hours, 53 minutes. First place among the women went to Ruel Sword of Waco with a time of 3 hours, 28 minutes, 6 seconds.

First place among men in the half-marathon went to Michael Kurvach of Fort Hood, and Ginger Stoker of Austin claimed the first place spot for the women. Tannery Casey of Harker Heights took first place among the men in the 5K, with Laura Bliss of Killeen coming in first for the women.

Additionally, the military unit with the fastest combined four finishers in the full marathon will be awarded the “Strength in Unity” trophy later this month.

“We were thrilled and moved to see such a wonderful turnout this year from the community and our veterans,” Ed Bandas, president of The Army Marathon, said. “Our goal is to become the largest marathon in the country that directly honors the service and sacrifice of our country’s armed forces, and we are well on our way.”

This year’s race commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam war and concluded with an after party at the finish line featuring music from the 60s and 70s.

For more information about The Army Marathon, visit www.TheArmyMarathon.com.

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