What would America be without our armed forces, trained and ready to protect and serve as duty calls? As Americans, we have great pride in our veterans and those on active duty (especially since the Naval Academy is an integral part of the city), so it only makes sense to support those great men and women. Annapolis features a system of support, highlighted by the 5k Annual John Ripley Memorial Race this Sunday, November 3. Keep reading for race details and how you might be affected.
The race came to be in 2009 after the death of much-celebrated and achieved Marine Corp Colonel John Ripley. Colonel Ripley earned numerous awards and served in the force for more than thirty-five years and also graduated from the Naval Academy. To commemorate this war hero, Navy graduates Adam Borcz and Jon Brianas teamed up with Ripley’s son, Tom, and the 5k was born.
The goal of the race is three-fold: one, to remember a brave war hero; two, to show support for military servicemen and women; and three, to raise money for the Semper Fi Fund.
The last year’s race was a major success, with over 1,000 runners and almost $65,000 raised, and this year is expected to be just as big. Runners begin and end at the Navy Stadium, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Both kids and adults are encouraged to participate. Kids can enjoy a one mile run, whereas adults have the 5k option. This race allows participants to take pleasure in all the best of Annapolis: City Dock, the State House, and the Naval Academy (see above map).
Due to the course of the race, several roads around downtown will be temporarily closed to accommodate runners. The Annapolis Business Association (ABA) warns that streets in-between Main Street and USNA Gate 1 will be blocked off around 9:05 a.m. Church Circle, Randall Street, Taylor Avenue (at Rowe), and between West Annapolis and B&A Blvd will also be opened and closed throughout the race, depending on influx of runners. After the race ends around 10 a.m., all downtown roads will resume normal traffic flow.
It is still possible to register for the race. General ticket prices cost $40; military members and youth tickets cost $30; the one miler tickets cost $15. To obtain tickets and learn more about this memorial race, visit Ripley Race. It’s a true Annapolis made and supported tradition!
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