“Somewhere inside, we hear a voice; our voice leads us in the direction of the person we wish to become, but it’s up to us whether or not to follow.”
–Pat Tillman
Over 35,000 participants “Proved It’ on Saturday morning.
Maybe the spirit of Pat Tillman was looking down from a light tower above Sun Devil Stadium with a smile on his face; just taking it all in as another “Pat’s Run” unfolded in Tempe. First, he might have a laugh thinking, “Wow, all of this for me. I’m just Pat.” Then, perhaps he would be proud and inspired by such a strong common bond of so many people in the community coming together like a team to make a difference in people’s lives. We can only wonder.
Over 35,000 people assembled at Sun Devil Stadium on Saturday morning to participate in the 9th Annual Pat’s Run. This incredible community event continues to unite people of all different races, gender, shapes, sizes and abilities to celebrate a man who left an indelible legacy on people all over the world.
Thousands of footsteps echoed on the pavement between “A” Mountain and Tempe Town Lake. It was a calm, peaceful sound of respect and honor. You could sense the will and determination of the runners as they passed by, some much more capable than others.
Sun Devil football players greeted runners at the finish line.
In what has become an annual tradition at Pat’s Run, the ASU Sun Devil football team lined the rail leading up to the finish line right at the 42 yard line of Frank Kush field. They high-fived runners who made it a point to veer to their side of the home stretch and roared in applause as some youngster’s finished with the adults (choosing to take the hard way instead of the .42 mile kids race) or in support of the elderly or handicapped that proved it by participating. Then there were the service men who ran the race in full fatigues and gear, many hoisting the American flag. Coach Todd Graham and some of his coaching staff also participated in the run, including former Sun Devil receiver and current ASU coach, Aaron Pflugrad.
Talking with Pflugrad after the race, he shared some thoughts on Tillman. “Pat inspires not only our football team, but the whole valley and country for what he stood for.” He also added, “The thing I took from him is everything in life he did with passion. Going all out in all aspects of life and not just being a football player.”
Yesterday, that sentiment was reflected by thousands as the Legacy of Patrick Daniel Tillman lives on in those who knew him or came to know about him and the life he led.
It was a good day in Tempe. View the “Pat’s Run” Photo Gallery.
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