TULSA, Okla. –

Tulsa runners will have the chance to honor a fallen Marine and Tulsa Police officer next week when the first-ever Jared Shoemaker Veteran Remembrance Run takes place Oct. 3 along the River Parks Trail system. The event is open to participants of all ages and experience levels, with three race distances available.

Proceeds benefit Folds of Honor and the Jared Shoemaker Academy.

Who was Jared Shoemaker?

Corporal Jared M. Shoemaker was born April 22, 1977, in Tulsa and grew up in the city he would later serve. He graduated from Edison High School and went on to earn a degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice from Northeastern State University.

Shoemaker joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 2003, assigned to 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve. He also entered the Tulsa Police Academy in 2005, graduating first in his class academically, and served as a patrol officer before deploying overseas.

Outside of his military and law enforcement career, Shoemaker was an active member of the Tulsa Rugby Club, where those who knew him described him as a leader and a friend.

On Sept. 4, 2006, Corporal Shoemaker was killed when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was 29 years old.

Race distances and registration

Three events are scheduled for Oct. 3 at the Tulsa Rugby Pitch, located at 37th Street and Riverside Drive.

The one-mile fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. and costs $25 to enter. Registration closes at 8:30 a.m. the day of the event.

The 5K and 10K both begin at 9 a.m. Registration is $35 for the 5K and $40 for the 10K. Registration for both closes at 9 a.m. the day of the event.

All courses start at the rugby pitch, head south along the River Parks Trail system, and follow a turnaround format back to the finish line.

What to expect on race day

Participants will begin on the center field of the Tulsa Rugby Pitch. Complimentary refreshments will be provided to registered runners, with additional food and drinks available for purchase.

A race day T-shirt is included with registration. Extra short-sleeve shirts will be available at the event. Shirts can be picked up at registration or on race day.

Parking and getting there

Parking will be available in the gravel lot at The Gathering Place, at 33rd Street and Riverside Drive. Organizers note that parking at 41st Street and Riverside Drive will not be available for this event.

If additional parking is needed, overflow parking with shuttle service will be provided from a location to be announced.

How to register and donate

Registration is open at the event’s official website. The fundraising campaign has raised $2,335 toward a $10,000 goal. Donations can be made directly through the event page.