More than 900 people participated in the inaugural Memphis International Airport (MEM) MEM Runway 5K on Saturday, September 20. The event allowed runners to experience a race on one of MEM’s runways, providing rare inside views of an airport that serves nearly 5 million passengers annually and ranks among one of the busiest cargo airports in world. One of the highlights of the course was that participants were able to run under a FedEx aircraft that was parked on the runway. A Tennessee Air National Guard (TANG) aircraft was also parked nearby.
Participants ranged in age from four to 92. Top finishers were presented with a special award that featured a runway light, and certificates were given top three finishers in various age categories. The post-race festivities included the awards ceremony as well as a drawing for two roundtrip tickets donated by Breeze Airways.
Proceeds from the race will support the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority’s Community Foundation. The foundation focuses on civic engagement, education, sustainability efforts, health, and community initiatives.
“Our first annual Runway 5K was a huge success and we thank the hundreds of participants that came out to support a great cause today,” said Terry Blue, president and CEO of the Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority. “It’s our goal to make this an annual event that celebrates aviation, fitness, and our community.”
Results:
Overall Male Michael Donnelly
Overall Female Kaitlyn Ambueh
Master (Ages 45-49): Male Ira Strange
Master (Ages 45-49): Female Amber Fournier
Grandmaster (50-54): Male Robert Lyles
Grandmaster (50-54): Female Margaret Williams
Full results can be found at https://results.raceroster.com/v2/en-US/results/ah59rturfde2updr/awards
