This race was organized by The Semper Fi Fund and America’s Fund that provide immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to post-9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, and their families, ensuring that they have the resources they need during their recovery and transition back to their communities. Since establishing the Semper Fi Fund in 2004, we’ve issued more than 106,000 grants, totaling more than $120 million in assistance to over 15,000 of our heroes and their families.

This was the first race organized by the North Fork Marines. According to Goggins-Mackenzie there were 40 pre-registered racers a week leading up to the race. The day before the race the number increased to 120, and then on the day of the race another 70 people registered.

The course took you through a beautiful neighborhood in Cutchogue with some tree cover that provided some shade to runners. The course was scenic with some portions passing the bay and farmland and presented. If the heat was not enough of a challenge some of the small hills did slow some runners down.

There was plenty of parking near New Suffolk Beach and along the side streets. Race organizers did not provide porta potties and they ran out of water, mistakes that I am sure they will not repeat. The volunteers and staff were energetic and helpful. The location will draw more runners in the future. This will be an event that continues to get better.