Black Hills Veterans March and Marathon

Event Overview

BLACK HILLS VETERAN’S HONOR MARCH AND MARATHON

The Black Hills Veteran’s Honor March was conceived in 2002 as a way to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women. The 26.2-mile march takes place in the picturesque Black Hills National Forest on the Mickelson Trail. The March is held on a weekend at the end of September.

Historical Background

• Inception: The March was conceived by soldiers from the South Dakota Army National Guard who were inspired by the Bataan Memorial Death March.
• Location: The Black Hills was chosen as the ideal venue for this commemorative march.
• Initial Recon: On September 21, 2002, seven members of the Army National Guard reconnoitered the proposed route.
• Route Development: The route closely matches the original from Rochford to Deadwood, with a revised finish at the Rodeo grounds.

Event Evolution

• Initial Planning: After the dry run in 2002, notes were compiled to present the idea to SDNGEA.
• Inaugural Event: The inaugural march was held in September 2004.
• Participation Growth: The memorial march has expanded to hundreds of participants from across the United States.
• Event Categories: Categories include Team Military and Civilian, Individual Military and Civilian, Heavy Military (with a 35lb Rucksack), Marathon, Mini-March, Team Mini-March, and now 110 Mile Endurance March.

Race Details

For more information, please visit the official race page: Black Hills Veterans March and Marathon.