Since the Marine Corps Marathon began in 1976, the race has been a symbol of endurance and hope. The course takes runners on a historic tour of our nation’s capitol, passing landmarks that speak to the bravery and sacrifice made by our armed forces in their continuing commitment to ensure America’s freedom.  One of the most inspirational of these monuments marks the race’s end: the Iwo Jima Memorial.

This famous statue, which honors Marine Corps members killed in battle, depicts an incident during World War II.  Five intrepid Marines and a Navy corpsman heroically raised an American flag on the small island of Iwo Jima, near Tokyo. The statue shows the men leaning into the task together, working as a team.

This kind of support and cooperation is everywhere you look at the Marine Corps Marathon, nicknamed “The People’s Marathon.” This year’s three-day event, October 23-25, is expected to draw about 30,000 runners in three races, the 26.2 mile marathon, a new 10K race, and the MCM Healthy Kids Fun Run.

During the race, as athletes push themselves past exhaustion, supporters gather along the routes to cheer them on.  Along with the many Marines who are present, these spectators inspire and support runners.  They encourage them to find and tap reserves of energy to reach the finish line.

For the second year in a row, Sodexo proudly serves as the official food service provider for the MCM, feeding more than 700 VIP's, and providing 30,000 bags filled with healthy snacks for the runners. In addition, Sodexo’s registered dietitian, Tina Reddington, talks about sensible nutrition and running at the MCM Health and Fitness Expo on Friday, October 23.  And finally, Sodexo also proudly sponsors the affiliated MCM Healthy Kids Fun Run, scheduled for Saturday, October 24.

News stories often show triumphant runners who have successfully completed their races. But for additional inspiration, I recommend coming to cheer on the littlest athletes at Saturday’s Healthy Kids Fun Run.  The race has grown to attract about 3,000 kids, ages 6-13.  They run in the one-mile event just for fun.  At the finish line, they get a t-shirt, a medal and snacks provided by Sodexo.

Last year, I remember one little girl in particular. She had physical challenges, but she was determined to finish the race. By the end, she had a whole crowd of Marines running alongside her cheering her on. At the finish line, her father hugged her, and then scooped her up onto his shoulders. I will never forget the look of triumph on that little girl’s face.

It’s the same look you see on all of the runners’ faces, no matter their ages. It’s triumph.  It’s relief.  It’s accomplishment.  It’s understanding among everyone that this is more than a race. Every year when I watch, I am moved by these athletes, these warriors, running alongside Arlington Cemetery, honoring all of those who have given their lives for our freedom. 

I encourage those in the area to come to the race to cheer on the runners and to honor our Marines.  You can also follow them throughout race weekend (October 23-25) on twitter at @sodexousa.  We will provide tips on endurance, nutrition, hydration and racing, some inspirational thoughts, as well as ongoing updates on the runners and the races.  It’s easy to follow us, just go to twitter.com, create your account if you haven’t already, and then become a Sodexo follower @sodexousa.  See you there! 

Good luck to all of the athletes!  Remember, “what matters is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight – it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”  -Dwight D. Eisenhower.