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Pat Tillman’s impact remembered in annual Pat’s Run that merges sports and service

© Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

TEMPE — Arizona sports legend and service member Pat Tillman’s legacy continues to be celebrated, and for the 22nd consecutive year, Pat’s Run will return this April.

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Runners take off from the starting line during Pat’s Run on April 12, 2025, in Tempe. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The event features a 4.2-mile course that winds through the city of Tempe before entering Mountain America Stadium. Participants cross the 40-yard line and finish on the 42-yard line — numbers Pat Tillman wore while playing for Arizona State and the Arizona Cardinals.

Dec 30, 2022; Glendale AZ, USA; A statue of former Arizona State Sun Devils and Arizona Cardinals linebacker Pat Tillman at State Farm Stadium, the site of the 2022 CFP Semifinal between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Michigan Wolverines and Super Bowl 57 (LVII). Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Dec 30, 2022; Glendale AZ, USA; A statue of former Arizona State Sun Devils and Arizona Cardinals linebacker Pat Tillman at State Farm Stadium, the site of the 2022 CFP Semifinal between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Michigan Wolverines and Super Bowl 57 (LVII). Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Thousands of runners and walkers of all ages are expected to participate, but the race is about more than competition. Pat’s Run supports nearly 1,000 Tillman Scholars, including service members, veterans and military spouses, transforming a local tribute into a national effort that gives back to those who have served.

Nov 25, 2001; San Diego, CA, USA: FILE PHOTO; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Pat Tillman (40) against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY Sports

Nov 25, 2001; San Diego, CA, USA: FILE PHOTO; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Pat Tillman (40) against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY Sports

While the run takes place in Tempe, Pat’s Run draws participants from across the country who come to honor Tillman’s service, leadership and sacrifice. The experience adds deeper meaning to the sports world and connects Arizona to one of the state’s most recognizable military and athletic figures.

Sep 24, 2022; Tempe, Arizona, USA; ASU players head to the locker room past the Pat Tillman statue after their 34-13 loss to Utah at Sun Devil Stadium.
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Those who participate will receive the official Pat’s Run race shirt and a 2026 finisher medal. For Wednesday only, participants can register for $42.40, a nod to Tillman’s jersey number. The limited-time price is available through 11:59 p.m. MST, and you can find the link here.

Isaac Easley laughs with Sparky prior to the start of the race during Pat’s Run on April 12, 2025, in Tempe. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Pat’s Run is scheduled for April 11, 2026.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

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