Hundreds of runners raced on Sunday morning in memory of fallen first responders, including a Watertown firefighter who died this spring.
With 21 teams from across the country, the Run to Remember Boston honored all first responders killed in the line of duty, including police officers, firefighters, and soldiers. This year, the event was dedicated to Joseph Toscano, who died at the scene of a two-alarm house fire in March.
“His warmth, kindness, curiosity for life, and love of the outdoors is reflected in his children,’’ said Cecil Jones, president of the Boston Police Runner’s Club and the race’s founder, sharing words from Toscano’s wife of 25 years and five children. “Just remember that every first responder has a family at home and a community.’’
Run to Remember Boston was founded 13 years ago as a way to honor fallen law enforcement officers in Massachusetts. Robert McCarthy, a retired state trooper and current Boston University Police Department officer, has participated in the race every year.
“[I’m here to] have a fun day, enjoy my friendship and camaraderie,’’ McCarthy said. McCarthy ran the 5-mile race, while his son, a state trooper also named Robert McCarthy, ran the half marathon.
This year’s event was sponsored by the City of Boston Credit Union, New Balance, and Geico. Teams running the half marathon could additionally participate in the First Responder Challenge. The first-place winner would earn $5,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, while the second- and third-place winners would win $3,000 and $1,500, respectively.
Some runners participated to commend current officers. Hanson police Officer Jared Meegan said his wife, Kaleigh Meegan, and her sister Meaghan McGrath both ran the half marathon. “I work on the job myself, so she said it would make sense to her,’’ Meegan said. He and his wife are set to celebrate their first anniversary on June 4. Meegan sees the race as a way to honor “those that made the ultimate sacrifice.’’ Although he did not run Sunday, he said he may participate next year.
Race activities began at 7 a.m. Sunday, with Boston police Officer Kim Tavares singing the national anthem. The wheelchair division racers set off from the starting line outside the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center shortly afterward.
Foot racers started in three waves beginning at 7:05 a.m., accompanied by music, cheering, air horns, and cowbells. Before the runners began, organizers called for a moment of silence for Toscano.
Rowan Walrath can be reached at rowan.walrath@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @rswalrath.
