Over 150 participants complete 50-Mile March in Papillion to support veterans
PAPILLION, Neb. (WOWT) – 50 miles… in 22 hours.
“They know how important it is that we take care of those who take care of us,” said Brianne Schuler, Executive Director of the 50 Mile March Foundation.
In Papillion, 166 people completed a journey that began the day before in Walton, Nebraska.
“I probably feel a little bit delirious at the moment… but my entire family was here,” said participant Jenna Ketchen.
For participant Nate Peitz, the challenge was even greater — he completed all 50 miles from a wheelchair.
“It’s probably the toughest challenge I’ve ever had to do,” Peitz said.
Pushing through gravel roads and trails, he says he went through multiple pairs of gloves.
“We were on 30-some miles of crushed limestone and MoPac trail. We were on about 6-7 miles of gravel rock road. So that chews up a lot of gloves wheeling through that,” he explained.
“This event powers what we do in the community and how we support our veterans,” said Schuler.
This year alone, the march raised $750,000.
“It truly has become a movement,” Schuler said. “Our youngest marcher this year was nine years old. Our oldest marcher was 75 years old and this is his third time marching with us.”
For many, it was about community and setting an example.
“It’s all about everybody coming together and making it happen and carrying each other through,” said Catchen.
At the finish line, marchers were greeted by cheering friends and family.
“Don’t tell your kids things, show your kids things. So, I was hoping that was a big part of what I was doing here today,” Catchen added.
To donate to the cause, click here. To sign up to walk next year, click here.