Runners take to Modesto streets to remember fallen officers

Hundreds of runners made their way along Modesto streets Sunday morning in the fifth annual Peace Officer Memorial Run, which raises money for a nonprofit and awareness about those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The event featured a half marathon, 5K race, kids fun run, and safety fair and expo. The half marathon drew 483 registrants while the 5K drew 973.

Organizers said that was a record, with about 50 percent more registered runners than last year. They attributed the increase in part to law enforcement agencies competing among themselves over who could field the biggest team. The California Highway Patrol’s Modesto-area office won Sunday, with a 137-member team. But the run also drew participants from throughout the community.

The full name of the race is Doctors Medical Center Presents Peace Officer Memorial Run. The hospital is the event’s presenting sponsor.

Proceeds from the race benefit the Peace Officer Memorial Group of Stanislaus County. The nonprofit educates the public about officers who die in the line of duty, helps the families of fallen officers and raises awareness about memorials for fallen officers, according to information from the race’s website.

There was a brief ceremony before the start of the race to honor the 15 Stanislaus County law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty over the decades.

The runners included Modesto police Detective Sean Dodge, Turlock police Sgt. Neil Cervenka and Stanislaus sheriff’s Capt. Jim Gordon, who ran the half marathon in full uniform – boots, bulletproof vest, duty belt and weapon – in all about 22 pounds of gear. They also carried a U.S. flag in black and white with a blue strip to honor fallen officers.

“It was hot,” Dodge said after the three finished, their uniforms drenched in sweat. The three experienced runners – they have competed in the 120-mile Baker to Vegas Relay – ran the half marathon in 2 hours and 41 minutes.

“It’s not the fastest we’ve done,” said Dodge, who added they appreciated the support they received in the race, which included hugs and high-fives at the finish. “We’re going to do it again next year.”

They raised about $16,000 for the Peace Officer Memorial Group of Stanislaus County. Modesto officer Kalani Souza participated in the 5K race in uniform along with his police dog.

This story was originally published September 25, 2016 at 5:15 PM with the headline "Runners take to Modesto streets to remember fallen officers."