DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — More than 13,000 runners took off from the start line in Downtown Jacksonville Saturday for the 45th annual Gate River Run, the largest 15K run in the nation.
STORY: Three men shot and two dead after altercation in Northwest Jacksonville
Runners made their way through the Downtown Jacksonville, St. Nicholas and San Marco neighborhoods.
Action News Jax spoke with Rosie Edwards, who ran her second Gate River Run.
“The atmosphere was great,” Edwards said. “The crowds were really encouraging, especially through the neighborhoods. It really got you going to the bridge.”
The Hart Bridge, also known as “The Green Monster,” is the race’s biggest challenge, and it comes at the end of the course.
STORY: Jacksonville Humane Society hosts large-scale pet adoption event for National Adoption Weekend
This was Richard Harris Jr.’s 21st Gate River Run. He explained his game plan for tackling those final miles.
“I always say just keep your head down and keep your feet moving,” Harris Jr. said.
Harris Jr. explained how important it is to focus and stay hydrated during a race like this.
“I’ve been running competitively since I was stationed in Germany, since 1992,” Harris Jr. said.
STORY: Two men shot at Whispers Crab House & Oyster Bar in Jacksonville
Since 1978, runners have been taking off from the start line for the Gate River Run, a day people of all ages have been training for months.
Runner Bria Wetch shared her thoughts.
“Everyone was cheering,” Wetch said. “It was loud. It was great. It was hot and humid though.”
Diane Nukuri agreed.
“It was fun racing with friends, and it was a good effort,” Nukuri said. “I’m just happy to be here.”
STORY: Radio calls reveal moments before deadly plane crash in St. Augustine
After Action News Jax’s Kennedy Dendy spoke with dozens of runners throughout the morning, it’s clear that everyone had their own unique approach.
“I’m 71 years old. I’m walking,” one runner said.
There was also a 5K run for charity, as well as other smaller events for people to take part in.
However, the Gate River Run has been the USATF 15K Championships since 1994.
“I thank the Lord,” Harris Jr. said. “I just want to start, and I want to finish.”
STORY: Russia attacks Ukraine: ‘Do not allow the death of Europe,’ Zelenskyy says
Emily Sisson won the women’s race, while Nico Montez won the men’s race.