RAF Mildenhall Airman takes marathon gold

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lindsey Maurice
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  An Airman stationed at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, crossed the finish line in 3:11:03 to win the Third Annual Aviano Air Base Marathon held off-base Sept. 13 in and around the town of Aviano.

Tech. Sgt. Brian Morris, 32, competed against more than 900 participants from U.S. military bases in Europe and Italy's Friuli Venezia Giulia Region. The marathon was part of the co-sponsored base marathon and local volksmarch events. The two events, held simultaneously, led runners and walkers alike through the local trails and roadways located at the base of the Dolomite mountains and the communities surrounding Aviano Air Base.

The 31st Force Support Squadron and the Aviano Road Runners, a group of Italian and U.S. runners teamed-up to host this year's events.

"The year's event was a huge success because of change," said Jennifer Kellner, 31st FSS Dragon Fitness Center fitness programs director. "Taking the event off base, creating friendship within the local community, providing a more scenic route with varying terrain... these were all changes for the better. We all work and do [physical training] on the base 24/7. It's nice to go off base and really see the city of Aviano via trails and intermingle with our Italian neighbors."

This year's winner was a familiar face, having placed first in last year's event as well.

"Going into this year's marathon I wasn't really sure how I was going to do, with the difference in terrain," said Sergeant Morris. "It wasn't until about mile 15 when I started to take a strong lead and that's when it hit me that I really wanted to take first again. I really started to push myself about that time. It's definitely a great feeling to take first again, there were some great competitors out there."

In addition to the full marathon, runners could also compete in a 13.1-mile half marathon, 10 and 5 kilometer and run. Children were also invited to participate in a 1-mile fun run. Other event entertainment included live music; children's area and military working dog, honor guard and kuk sool won demonstrations. Food and refreshments were also provided.

"We received a lot of positive feedback about this year's event," said Mrs. Kellner. "Everyone seemed to have a great time and loved that it was off base and open to the general public. Many kudos to all of our volunteers, sponsors, leadership and squadron support base wide. We could have never done an event this large without everyone's support. I hope next year's marathon will be as successful."