Run for Wounded Warriors Set for Aug. 6 in Kennesaw

Two years ago, Kennesaw 17-year-old Jonathan Borden watched several military biographies on the Military Channel over Memorial Day weekend. The bios were produced by the Wounded Warrior Project to raise awareness of those severely wounded heroes injured in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

That inspiration led Borden to begin the Run for Wounded Warriors last year, when 400 runners took to the streets of Kennesaw to benefit those wounded for our country’s freedom. This year’s second annual race will be held Saturday, Aug. 6, at 7:30 a.m., beginning at Kennesaw First Baptist Church on Main Street.

The race is the third of six races in the , and many volunteers will be out bright and early to make sure it’s a success. Last year’s race raised more than $5,000.

Pre-registration is $25, and race day registration is $30. Runners will also receive a T-shirt designed by Borden, who hopes to see 600 runners this year.

“I’m happy to see people take this seriously,” said Borden, now 19 and a student at Chattahoochee Technical College. “If just one person helps get money for these soldiers, it’s worth it.”

The race organizers will host eight wounded soldiers as their guests that weekend, Borden said, adding they will receive a VIP tour of the Georgia Aquarium and Dolphin Show, dinner at on Barrett Parkway, lunch after the run at in Kennesaw, and lodging at in Kennesaw.

“We have a great community here in Kennesaw and lots of support,” Borden said.

An “after party” after the race at the Kennesaw Downtown Depot will include awards, a performance by Impact Dance, patriotic singing and recognition of World War II veterans, he added.

Online registration is available until Aug. 3 at www.runforwoundedwarriors.org.