Five things to know about the Run in Remembrance

The silence at 9:43 a.m., followed by the joyful yelling of loved ones as they cheer on the runners and walkers. There are a variety of emotions on April 16, the Day of Remembrance, when the Virginia Tech community gathers for the 3.2-Mile Run in Remembrance.
 
For the first time since 2019, the annual run to honor the 32 students and faculty members who lost their lives 15 years ago will happen in person on campus on Saturday. Because of the pandemic, runners and walkers participated virtually for the past two years. Hokies from around the world still are encouraged to participate in the run virtually.
 
If you’re curious about what is involved in this annual event, here are some tips from fellow Hokies who have participated in past years.

1. You don’t have to run.

While it is in the name of the event, running is not required. You are welcome to walk, jog, or push a stroller the entire route. Everyone is encouraged to choose their own pace.

2. Registration is encouraged but not required.

You can wake up Saturday morning and show up at the run. Registration is not required but is encouraged. Registration is currently open.

If you received a Run in Remembrance T-shirt from early registration, don’t forget to wear it.

If you do not live in Blacksburg, you can participate virtually. Share your photos on Instagram and Twitter, and use the hashtag #VT32Run.

3. You can volunteer.

If you want to support the event without walking or running, you can volunteer to help before, during, and after the event. Volunteers help set up, hand out bibs, and work water stations across the course. Sign up to volunteer online.

4. You will see the best views of Virginia Tech.

The route begins on the Drillfield and passes multiple campus sights, such as the Duck Pond, the Pylons, and Lane Stadium. All of Virginia Tech’s best views are available throughout the course, and participants can stop and take photos at any point.

5. As always, we remember.

At 9:43 a.m., just before the run begins, a moment of silence will take place to honor those who lost their lives on April 16, 2007. The race begins and ends near the April 16 memorial on the Drillfield.
 
For information about all Day of Remembrance events, visit the We Remember site.

By Gabby Taylor '22, University Relations intern