Falla Walla Half Marathon, 10K & Heroes 5K Run

Welcome to the First Annual Heroes Run. This run is a memorial for three Walla Walla first responders who recently passed away. This 5K run is to honor these three remarkable people.
Runners and walkers alike will be treated to the beautiful Millcreek nature pathway. This route will have a combination of asphalt and gravel road surfaces. The 5k will take place in conjunction with the Falla Walla 10K and half marathon.

What to expect: There will be awards for the top 3 female and top 3 male finishers. All participants who registrar before September 1 st will receive a free t-shirt and the first 140
participants who registrar will also receive a free pint glass. At the finish line there will be a beer garden and food trucks available for purchase. There will be an optional shorter loop for kids!!
What this run is really about
 Melissa Harting was a registered nurse at Providence Saint Mary Medical Center in the
Emergency Department. She began her long-time career at Providence St. Mary Medical
Center starting out as a Certified Nursing Assistant and later moved into an Emergency
Tech role. In 2018 she was accepted into Walla Walla Community Colleges Nursing
Program where she graduated and obtained her Registered Nurse licensure in 2020.On
October 4 th , 2023, Melissa passed away at the age of 44. She was a dedicated mother,
friend and healthcare provider in all of her roles.
 Robert Becker was the 2 nd year lead instructor for the Walla Walla Community College
Nursing Program and had been teaching nursing students for over 34 years when he
retired in June 2023. Many of the nurses in the Walla Walla Valley and beyond have had
Rob as an instructor. His love for teaching and inspiring students went above and
beyond. Rob passed away November 8 th , 2023, at the age of 68. He was a devoted
professor, mentor, and friend to many and a loving husband to Patti.
 Ryan Pleasants, 41, of Walla Walla, WA, passed away on January 7, 2024, while on duty
for the City of Walla Walla Fire Department. Ryan dedicated his life to serving his
community. First to those in the Cowlitz County - North Country area as a mountain
rescue/EMT for 2 years. That proceeded a 19-year career as a firefighter/paramedic
with the City of Walla Walla Fire Department, with a most recent promotion of
Firefighter Engineer on his 20th year. He continually showcased his commitment and
passion for the community he served, his family along with his fire brothers and sisters.
The proceeds from this first annual Heroes run will benefit those in our community in bettering
their lives. Melissa Harting and Rob Becker’s portions will go to their individual memorial funds
at the Walla Walla Community College Foundation to help nursing student financially as they
complete their nursing programs. Ryan Pleasants portion will go to a fund that has been
established in his name at the United Way in Walla Walla to help current and future fire fighters
and paramedics succeed in their careers.
Thank you for giving and for honoring these three Heroes of our community.

No Refunds and No Deferrals
Must be present to receive free t-shirt and pint glass