Welcome to the 2nd Annual Heroes Run. This run is a memorial for three Walla Walla health care professionals who have passed away. This 5K run is to honor these three remarkable people.
Runners and walkers alike will be treated to the beautiful Millcreek nature pathway. The 5k will take place in conjunction with the Falla Walla 10K and half marathon.
What to expect: There will be awards for the top 3 female and top 3 male finishers. All participants who registrar before September 12st will receive a free t-shirt. The first 140 participants 13 and up who registrar will also receive a commemorative pint glass. All kids 12 and under will be given a water bottle. At the finish line there will be a beer garden where anyone 21 and older can redeem their first beer on the house. A strawberry short cake social will again be provided by Eastgate SDA.
What this run is really about
• Melissa Harting was a registered nurse at Providence Saint Mary Medical Center in the Emergency Department. She began her long-time career at Providence St. Mary Medical Center starting out as a Certified Nursing Assistant and later moved into an Emergency Tech role. In 2018 she was accepted into Walla Walla Community Colleges Nursing Program where she graduated and obtained her Registered Nurse licensure in 2020.On October 4th, 2023, Melissa passed away at the age of 44. She was a dedicated mother, friend and healthcare provider in all of her roles.
• Robert Becker was the 2nd year lead instructor for the Walla Walla Community College Nursing Program and had been teaching nursing students for over 34 years when he retired in June 2023. Many of the nurses in the Walla Walla Valley and beyond have had Rob as an instructor. His love for teaching and inspiring students went above and beyond. Rob passed away November 8th, 2023, at the age of 68. He was a devoted professor, mentor, and friend to many and a loving husband to Patti.
• Ryan Pleasants, 41, of Walla Walla, WA, passed away on January 7, 2024, while on duty for the City of Walla Walla Fire Department. Ryan dedicated his life to serving his community, starting in the Cowlitz County - North County area as a mountain rescue EMT for 2 years. This was followed by a 19-year career as a firefighter/paramedic with the City of Walla Walla Fire Department, culminating in his promotion to Firefighter Engineer for his 20th year with the department. He continually showcased his commitment and passion for the community he served, his family, and his fellow fire brothers and sisters.
The proceeds from this 2nd annual Heroes run will benefit those in our community in bettering their lives. Melissa Harting and Rob Becker’s portions will go to their individual memorial funds at the Walla Walla Community College Foundation to help nursing student financially as they complete their nursing degrees. In honor of Ryan’s legacy, Ryan’s portion of the funds will go towards a scholarship to help current and future EMS providers advance their careers and improve the quality of care they will provide. This scholarship will be housed and managed by your local United Way of the Blue Mountains.
Thank you for giving and for honoring these three Heroes of our community.
Sign up at
https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/WallaWalla/FallaWallaHalfMarathon10k
Also check out other Sports events in Walla Walla, Health & Wellness events in Walla Walla.
