Honor Every Mile

The 34.3 For The 343 Memorial Run is more than an endurance event.

it's a promise to never forget the 343 FDNY members who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.

Each year, runners depart from Long Beach, New York, and travel 34.3 miles to Ground Zero, A journey of remembrance, sacrifice, and unity. Along the way, we pause during the exact moments of the attacks to honor those who were lost, carrying their memory with us every step of the way. This is not a race against one another.

It is a run united by purpose.

Registration includes:

• Official 2026 34.3 Singlet

• Transportation (coach bus from South Street Seaport back to Long Beach)

• Event logistics and on-course support

• Post-run celebration at Jetty Bar

• Support of the 34.3 Foundation Active Duty Crisis Fund

Registration Fee:$150

RUN REQUIREMENTS

Runner Eligibility

Because of the unique nature of this event, participation is limited to experienced distance runners.

To safely complete the event and maintain the schedule, runners should:

• Have completed a marathon in under four hours

• A marathon time of 3:30 or faster is strongly preferred

• Be capable of maintaining approximately an 8:30–8:45 minute-per-mile pace for the full 34.3-mile distance

This is an unsanctioned memorial run, not a timed race. The group will remain together throughout the day to ensure safety, logistical coordination, and to arrive at Ground Zero together.

If a participant is unable to maintain the required pace and falls significantly behind the group, they will be responsible for completing the remainder of the route independently.

Carrying the Mission

Each runner is expected to carry a 3' × 5' Thin Red Line flag for the entire 34.3 mile journey.

The flags have become one of the defining images of this memorial run. They are a visible reminder of the firefighters we honor and the promise we continue to keep.

BIKE CREW

Support Crew

Our bicycle support team has reached capacity for 2026.

We are fortunate to have an outstanding support crew from The Big House (E264, E328, L134) along with an FDNY support van to transport nutrition, hydration, medical supplies, and personal gear throughout the run.

To help maintain safety and simplify logistics, we ask that runners do not invite additional bicycle escorts unless those individuals have arranged their own transportation home after the event.

EVENT LOGISTICS

Important Information

Our goal is to arrive at Ground Zero between approximately 3:30 PM and 3:45 PM.

Following the memorial ceremony:

• Coach buses will be staged at South Street Seaport beginning at 4:00 PM

• Buses will depart promptly at 4:30 PM for Long Beach

• Runners will return for our annual post run gathering at Jetty Bar

All participants are required to complete and sign the event liability waiver prior to participating.

A Promise Worth Keeping

Twenty five years after September 11th, 2001 our responsibility has not changed.

We run because 343 FDNY members answered the call without hesitation.

We run for the families who continue to carry unimaginable loss.

We run so future generations never forget what courage, sacrifice, and service truly look like.

On September 11th, every mile has meaning. Every flag tells a story. Every runner carries something far greater than themselves.

If you're ready to be part of something bigger than a finish line, we invite you to stand beside us, carry the mission forward, and help ensure that the legacy of the 343 is never forgotten.

Never Forget. Never Quit.