Hinesville 9/11 Heroes Run expands to official 5K this weekend

Event: Hinesville 9/11 Heroes Run 5K Run/Ruck/Walk
Date: Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
Time: Packet pickup and check-in begin at 8:30 a.m.; race starts at 9 a.m.
Location: Shuman Recreation Center, 800 Tupelo Trail, Hinesville, GA 31313
Contact: Tracy Jefferson, race director, at 912-312-2189

by Tyler Walls

HINESVILLE, Ga. (WTOC) - What began as a smaller community event has grown into an official Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run 5K Run/Ruck/Walk in Hinesville this weekend.

The event is set for Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Shuman Recreation Center at 800 Tupelo Trail. Check-in and packet pickup open at 8:30 a.m., and the 5K begins at 9 a.m.

The race started in 2022 as a local “Shadow Run” that covered roughly half the distance of a standard 5K. Four years later, the event has expanded into an official, full-length 5K organized by the Travis Manion Foundation Hinesville Chapter to honor the victims of Sept. 11 and active-duty service members, veterans and first responders.

More than 80 young people representing Bradwell Institute JROTC, Liberty County High School JROTC and the Fort Stewart Youth Challenge are scheduled to participate, running and rucking side by side with military personnel and first responders.

In addition to the run, the Liberty County Fire Department will set up a ladder truck display honoring first responders, alongside activities hosted by local community organizations.

The event welcomes runners, ruckers and walkers of all fitness levels. Anyone interested in participating or learning more can contact Race Director Tracy Jefferson at 912-312-2189.