A scarlet and gold sunrise welcomed over 30,000 runners to this year’s Marine Corps Marathon. Sunday, October 26th was the 33rd year the Marines have hosted this 26.2 mile race that runs through the heart of our nation’s capital.

In the city that is filled with symbols of our nation’s freedom, Team Hope for the Warriors™ was there running for those who had sacrificed for that freedom. Hope for the Warriors™ is an organization that provides assistance to wounded service members and their families. Donations raised by this team totaled over $60,000.00. “We were so pleased with the support we received this year. People were so generous and giving for which we are very grateful,” stated team captain, Toni Aurillo. “Our team had 52 team members, 5 of which were hand cyclists, who truly inspired the rest of us out there on the course,” Aurilio added. In addition, Team Hope For The Warriors™ boasted 4 husband and wife teams, the Turners, Whatleys, Aurilios and the Nelsons.

Four of the most inspiring team members and truly the impetus for the team's devotion to it's mission were Zach Briseno, AJ Tong, Chris Hedgcorth and Ed Salau. Zach, a Marine and AJ, a Soldier, were both wounded in Iraq and both amputees. Their recovery led them to the Center For The Intrepid in San Antonio, TX and now to DC for the mental therapy that will stay with them for a lifetime. They stayed together for the entire 26.2 miles and have vowed that this marathon is just the beginning. Zach, a double amputee, who recently celebrated his Alive Day got off his cycle just before the Iwo Jima hill and walked across the finish line.

Chris Hedgcorth, a Marine, and Ed Salau, a single amputee, Marine and National Guardsman, were also both wounded in Iraq and have now dedicated their lives to wounded service men and women aboard Camp Lejeune at the Wounded Warrior Barracks and around the country. This was not their first marathon. Despite sustaining severe leg injuries, both men improved their time this year while inspiring runners along the way.

It is said the Marine Corps Marathon is the “People’s Marathon” and if you were there witnessing Paul Kelly, H4W team member and hand cyclist climb the last hill, you would have to agree. It was the people there through their cheers and tears that helped to push him up that unforgiving hill without ever placing a hand on him. Folks rose to their feet as the Marines stood at attention and saluted the American flag that waved proudly on the back of his cycle. Crossing the finish line, Old Glory waved to a grateful nation, one filled with renewed patriotism, pride and hope.

Introducing the 2008 Team Hope For the Warriors™:

Hope For The Warriors™ challenges you to become a member of our team and raise money and awareness for America's heroes, give people a chance to support these young men and women through your efforts of running/walking/hand cycling/swimming/racing - it is a challenge that will change your life!