San Marino will host the JP Blecksmith Memorial 5K on Friday, July 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., continuing a tradition that honors a local Marine killed in Iraq while raising funds for memorial scholarships. The signature event hosted by the JP Blecksmith Leadership Foundation serves as both a patriotic Independence Day celebration and a meaningful tribute to Marine 2nd Lieutenant JP Blecksmith, who was killed in Fallujah, Iraq on November 11, 2004, while leading his Marines in support of Operation Phantom Fury.
The foundation was created to perpetuate the legacy and honor the life and sacrifice of JP Blecksmith. The organization’s mission is to keep his memory and legacy of leadership alive through charitable works and community events.
The event administrator has closed online registration for this event. There are two in-person registration options: July 3 at Run With Us in Pasadena from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and July 4 (race morning) from 6:45 a.m. to 7:40 a.m.
The race begins at 1441 San Marino Avenue and offers both standard 5K registration and Shadow Virtual Run registration options for those unable to attend in person.
The event’s proceeds and additional donations support several memorial scholarships. The foundation has also supported veterans’ memorials around the San Gabriel Valley, extending its charitable mission throughout the region.
Participants can access bib number assignments online and find additional race information at the event website. The event provides an opportunity for community members to honor military service while participating in healthy Independence Day activities.
The foundation continues its work to commemorate JP Blecksmith’s sacrifice and leadership through this annual event. The race allows families and individuals to begin their Fourth of July celebrations with a meaningful tribute to those who have served in the military.
Race Director Alex Blecksmith can be contacted at (626) 672-9080 for additional information, or participants can email the event director directly. The organized event schedule allows participants to complete the memorial run and continue with other Independence Day festivities throughout the day.
The JP Blecksmith Memorial 5K represents both a community gathering and a solemn remembrance of military sacrifice, bringing together residents to support educational scholarships and veterans’ causes while celebrating American independence.
For more information please visit:www.racewire.com/
