MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- As avid runners anticipated the start of a grueling 13 mile run at Camp Pendleton’s 43 Area, the memory of those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of 9/11 were remembered at the Heartbreak Ridge Half Marathon, Sept. 11.

The half marathon occurs annually in ordinance with the Marine Special Operations Command Hard Corps Race Series, and is the fifth of the six yearly events offered for participants. More than 1,000 runners competed for awards in 50 categories during the race.

The course traveled through the rolling hills of Las Pulgas and was peppered with water and medical-aid stations for the runners. The event also had designated food and entertainment areas for spectators.

“The whole event was well organized and I’m so glad to have participated,” said Jenna Munguia, 26, 1st place winner for Female 25-29. “It was my first marathon in a while, but I can still feel accomplished that I finished in a decent time.”

When the majority of the racers crossed the finish line, the award ceremony began, awarding the overall top three racers, and the top three in each of the other 47 categories. Dan Kuch, 36, took first overall, crossing the finish line at one hour and 16 minutes.

Points for the entire 2010 Hard Corps Race Series were also awarded to the top 10 overall males and females in both military and civilian categories. For any base service member who participated in the marathon, points were awarded toward the Pendleton Cup, which benefits those individuals’ unit.

The sixth and final race for the series will be the Buffalo Alley 10k, 5k and 1k Race, scheduled for Oct. 16, at Camp Horno. For more information on the series, visit www.camppendletonraces.com.