For results from the 2011 run, click here.
Click here to read 2009/2010 recaps from Rita Jerabek!
The Jerabek Challenge, which takes place at Four Seasons Park in Hobart, offered a new twist this year. Runners participating in the 4-mile run had the option of joining the "Boot Brigade." This will be a challenge to run the event in ankle high boots (hiking boots, hunting boots, military boots, etc., no basketball shoes). Those who complete the entire 4 mile race as part of the Boot Brigade will receive a military dog tag necklace with the inscription "2011 Jerabek Challenge Boot Brigade." The tags will be collectible and repeat participants are encouraged to add them to the bead chain necklace they receive and run with them each year. The slogan for the Boot Brigade will be "Earn Your Dog Tag."
Ryan Jerabek, an 18 year old Hobart native had served our Nation in the United States Marine Corps with Honor, Courage and Commitment. Ryan was assigned to the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, 2nd Battalion, 4th Regiment, ECHO Co. Weapons Platoon. (2/4 Second to None) He gave his life for the cause of Freedom on 6 April, 2004 in Ramadi, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ryan was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat V for extraordinary heroism. He also received the Purple Heart. This event is planned to take place on the roads that Ryan ran to prepare himself for his service in the Marine Corps.
The intention of this non-profit event is to honor and thank our veterans, all of our servicemen and women, and to Honor and Remember our Fallen Heroes.
The inspiration and driving force behind this event came from Ryan himself. In his senior year at Pulaski High School, he gave a speech about the Marine Corps. At the end of the speech, he implored his fellow students with the following:
"I’d like to ask of you to thank those who fought and are fighting in the battles to keep this country at the pinnacle of Freedom."
- Ryan Jerabek 2 Dec 2002
This event is one way that we can honor Ryan’s request. SEMPER FIDELIS (Always Faithful)
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JERABEK CHALLENGE IN THE NEWS...
August 14, 2011: Memories run deep at Jerabek Challenge (Read more)
August 13, 2011: Jerabek Challenge helps injured Marines (Read more)
February 20, 2011: Highlights of the 2010 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek, USMC Memorial Challenge (Read more)
February 20, 2011: Highlights of the 2009 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek, USMC Memorial Challenge (Read more)
August 10, 2010: USS Green Bay Runs at Sea to Honor Fallen Hero (Read more)
August 15, 2010: Fifth annual Jerabek Challenge in Hobart a race to remember (Read more)
May 29, 2010: One Marine's memorial: day of racing to honor veterans' service (Read more)
August 11, 2009: Jerabek Challenge Run in Baghdad (Read more)
August 9, 2009: 'We shed blood on the battlefield together' (Read more)
November 10, 2008: Grant recipients announced for 2008 Jerabek Challenge (Read more)
August 10, 2008: Runners Pay Tribute To Marine Killed In Iraq (Read more)
July 2, 2008: Group of Marines Run in Iraq to Honor Jerabek (Read more)
August 12, 2007: Memorial Race Honors Marine Killed In Iraq (Read more)