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Ryan Shay 5.5 Mile Memorial Run in Your Hometown: Saturday, November 17

shay_ryan-falmouth07225.jpgMost folks out there who are reading this are already familiar with the untimely death of 28-year-old running phenom Ryan Shay at the 2008 Olympic Marathon Trials in New York City, on Saturday, November 3. Ryan collapsed at mile 5.5 and was pronounced dead at Lenox Hill Hospital shortly thereafter.

This news has rocked the distance running community, as Ryan had an incredibly promising career and had already set many records in his years at Notre Dame and proved himself at distances ranging from 10k to the marathon. At 28, the prospects of him representing the U.S. in future Olympics looked good.

Sure, the loss of a talented distance runner is a tough pill to swallow for the United States, which has only recently started to have a resurgence of talent at the marathon level. What is harder to swallow, though, is the thought of those that are left behind trying to make sense of the empty space that he once occupied. His wife, Alicia. His training partners, Meb, Deena, Josh, etc. his numerous friends and family.

Join us in support of them as they process their loss and dedicate your own 5.5 mile run next Saturday, November 17th in memory of Ryan. Run the exact distance, or dedicate a 5.5 mile portion of a longer run in his memory. Take the time to recognize life’s frailty, to think about those in your life that you need to tell that you love and most of all, pray for those who will feel Ryan’s absence the most. Our goal is to get as many runners on this planet as possible running this virtual memorial together. Leave a comment below if you plan to participate, so the Shay family can see the results of our efforts, and perhaps take some comfort. (UPDATE: If you’re not up to 5.5 miles, just dedicate whatever distance you are able to run or run/walk, or walk, to Ryan. It’s not about distance or speed.)

Ryan’s father, Joe Shay, started a thread about Ryan over at the Let’sRun forum. I know the family will appreciate any comments you feel moved to write.

Also, a memorial fund has been set up. I know money can never take away the sense of loss, but his devastated family will be most appreciative of anything you choose to offer.

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208 Responses to “Ryan Shay 5.5 Mile Memorial Run in Your Hometown: Saturday, November 17”

  1. Don on November 7th, 2007 12:16 pm

    Great idea!

  2. Phil Mishka on November 7th, 2007 12:24 pm

    5.5 miles on November 17 it is. Ryan was a teammate of mine at the University of Notre Dame. Not enough can ever be said about his character in running and in life. The best tribute we can give Ryan is to make our own lives better in whatever way it was that Ryan inspired us.

    Rest in Peace, Ryan.

  3. Jeanne on November 7th, 2007 12:29 pm

    i’m in, jeff.

    visit my profile page
  4. Mark Iocchelli on November 7th, 2007 1:02 pm

    Just try and stop me. To the Shay family – you are in our thoughts.

    visit my profile page
  5. Dianna on November 7th, 2007 2:01 pm

    With wings on my feets.

  6. JoAnna Masloski (Deeter) on November 7th, 2007 2:08 pm

    I will be on the roads, enjoying a run in Ryan’s honor, as I have been doing since his untimely death.

    Run Forever Ryan.

  7. SlowTurtle (Roger) on November 7th, 2007 2:45 pm

    Let’s honor Ryan.

    5.5

    Nuff’ Said.

  8. Tim Finnegan on November 7th, 2007 5:39 pm

    I’ll do it as a workout. 5.5 miles at the pace of his last 5.5.

  9. Lisa Muench on November 7th, 2007 7:23 pm

    Yes, I will run in honor of Ryan.
    Lisa

  10. Tim Ryan on November 7th, 2007 9:19 pm

    I have a race that day in NYC at Van Cortlandt. Its an 8k and our final race of the season – IC4A’s. I’ll run the race in honor of him.

  11. Erin on November 8th, 2007 5:43 am

    Yes, I will run.

  12. Heri on November 8th, 2007 9:10 am

    I have a race the folowing day 18 th Nov here in San Antonio and is on his name that i will do it, never lieve a fellow comrade behind, that is how we said in the military.

  13. nycrunphoto on November 8th, 2007 3:34 pm

    NYC runners … who’s up for starting out at 7:35 a.m. from rock center, running the same route and concluding at the boathouse? meet at 50th street, halfway between 5th and 6th aves. traffic at that hour is light, so it will be no problem to swing down through times sq., just as he did on saturday.

  14. Thomas on November 8th, 2007 4:43 pm

    Part of my long-run will be dedicated to Ryan. My thoughts and prayors are with his family and friends.

  15. kc on November 8th, 2007 5:24 pm

    I will be running 5.5 miles for ryan, and running my next race dedicated to him

  16. Matt Downin on November 8th, 2007 6:58 pm

    Here in Madison, Wisconsin, we will do a run for Ryan at 9:00 Am on Saturday the 17th. We will start in front of Movin’ Shoes on South Park Street. The route will be determined before we start. Anyone interested in doing this for Ryan can join in.

  17. Run for Ryan at Runner Susan on November 9th, 2007 5:57 am

    [...] Join the Complete Running Network and dedicate your own 5.5 mile run next Saturday, November 17th in memory of Ryan. Run the exact distance, or dedicate a 5.5 mile portion of a longer run in his memory.  You can read the complete article about Ryan’s untimely death here. [...]

  18. Brian T. on November 9th, 2007 7:19 am

    In my 3 year old daughter’s words… “come run with me Daddy”… on the 17th I’ll run with Ryan and his family in my heart.

  19. Kevin Yoder on November 9th, 2007 8:00 am

    I’ll do it, and take my son with me.

  20. neese on November 9th, 2007 8:26 am

    wow he is gorgeous. so sad.
    I’ll have a turkey trot 5k that day…but will find my own personal way to pay tribute…

  21. Joe Garland on November 9th, 2007 8:47 am

    My Club’s normal Saturday run of 5.5 miles in Larchmont, New York will be done in his memory at 8am on November 17.

  22. Jeremy S on November 9th, 2007 9:07 am

    I’ll do it in Tokyo.

  23. Briggs on November 9th, 2007 9:31 am

    I’m in. I’ll kiss my daughters on the way out the door and hug them when I get home. I hope to run with Mishka …if he wants company.

  24. A Passion for Running » Ryan Shay Memorial Run on November 9th, 2007 9:54 am

    [...] would like anyone who can next Saturday to run 5.5 miles in honor of Ryan Shay. The details are on Complete Running. tags:ryan [...]

  25. Judy on November 9th, 2007 10:21 am

    I will run 5.5 in memory of Ryan. Let your light shine.

  26. Thomas on November 9th, 2007 11:08 am

    I’ll do 11 miles that day, 5.5 miles to remember Ryan 5.5 and 5.5 for my new-born daughter to celebrate a new life. It somehow seems appropriate.

  27. Ric on November 9th, 2007 11:26 am

    As a fellow Michigander, I will run Reed’s Lake here in Grand Rapids. I don’t know if Ryan ever ran that course, but its beauty is fitting. He would’ve love it.
    Anyone nearby, feel free to join me!

  28. Ari on November 9th, 2007 11:57 am

    This is a great idea, and I blogged about it earlier. I’m doing it. NYC or DC…not sure yet.

  29. RR on November 9th, 2007 12:42 pm

    We’ll be doing it in Little Rock.

  30. Aaron Engelsrud on November 9th, 2007 12:55 pm

    I’ll be out the running 5.5 miles in memory of Ryan.

    Thanks!

    Aaron

  31. Ryan Shay was killed by drugs @ Run to Win on November 9th, 2007 1:29 pm

    [...] track runs at his old high school as the town tries to cope with his loss. All across the country, runners are participating in their own 5.5 mile memorial run for [...]

  32. Robb on November 9th, 2007 2:50 pm

    I’m in. Great idea. His attitude and strength remain an inspiration.

  33. P.O.M. on November 9th, 2007 3:03 pm

    I’m in. I’ll be on the NB boardwalk for 5.5 miles.

  34. Christian on November 9th, 2007 3:33 pm

    Now that I have wiped the tears from my eyes, I’ll dedicate my run here in Victoria, BC. Running has always mattered but maybe a little more next Saturday. Thanks Ryan.

  35. Robin Petrini on November 9th, 2007 5:29 pm

    I’m in. My thoughts and prayers to the Shay family.

  36. Rob on November 9th, 2007 5:55 pm

    What a great way to celebrate life in memory of Ryan. Count me in!

  37. Steve scine on November 9th, 2007 6:19 pm

    Im gonna do it in canada and im gonna do it fast.

  38. Rich on November 9th, 2007 6:28 pm

    Dallas, TX is in as well. My thoughts and prayers will be with his family.

  39. Tom Burke on November 9th, 2007 9:19 pm

    I’m going to run it in Ellicott City, MD

  40. Jason on November 9th, 2007 9:34 pm

    I am in for sure.

  41. Joe on November 9th, 2007 10:17 pm

    … let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
    -Hebrews 12:1

    My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Ryan. My 5.5 miles will be in his honor.

    Joe

  42. air-run on November 10th, 2007 8:01 am

    Count me in for sure!

  43. 21stCenturyMom on November 10th, 2007 9:59 am

    I’m in! I also created a tribute video to run next Saturday. It is on YouTube now.

    visit my profile page
  44. Arturo on November 10th, 2007 11:19 am

    Anyone doing this in the downtown Boston area? I’d like to join.

  45. kip clark on November 10th, 2007 1:24 pm

    We are running a training run at White Rock Lake in Dallas on the 17th. Meet us at the parking lot accross from the stone tables at 7am and we will dedicate 5.5 miles of the run to the memory of and in honor of Ryan.

  46. All Downhill From Here » Local Ryan Shay Memorial Run on November 10th, 2007 5:58 pm

    [...] make it to the local Monday run. Jeff, one of my Californian bloggy buddies is organizing a virtual hometown run in support and memory, on Saturday, November 17. Posted by karen [...]

  47. gina on November 10th, 2007 8:06 pm

    a run for Rembering…Ryan

    yes, from Texas…we will be running!

  48. Sue on November 10th, 2007 8:11 pm

    We’ll be running in neighboring Bellaire, MI, while our thoughts and prayers go out to the extended Shay family…

  49. Angel on November 11th, 2007 1:07 pm

    What a great idea!!! I will be running in Western Kansas in honor of Ryan.

  50. Lisa on November 11th, 2007 2:58 pm

    I will most definitely run in honor of Ryan. What a wonderful tribute.

  51. Seth on November 11th, 2007 3:55 pm

    Consider it done…

    5.5 for Ryan

  52. Loredana on November 11th, 2007 4:06 pm

    I WILL RUN IN HONOR OF RYAN. I will join other NYC runners starting out at 7:35 a.m. from Rockefeller Center, running the same route and concluding at the boathouse.

    My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Shay family.

  53. david on November 11th, 2007 5:51 pm

    I will run the 5.5 in Central Florida as fast as I can. That’s what Ryan was doing.

  54. Steve on November 11th, 2007 6:30 pm

    While I’m not in shape to run that distance on Saturday, I will dedicate the 4 miles I ran today (including 5K in an XC race) and the first 1.5 in run on Saturday to his memory!

    -Steve

  55. Jim Howe on November 11th, 2007 7:31 pm

    I will run 5.5 miles on the grassy field of my favorite park this coming Saturday in honor of Ryan. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Shay ramily and many others who loved Ryan.

  56. Chris on November 11th, 2007 8:00 pm

    Count me in – running in Central Florida.

    -MarathonChris

  57. eric on November 11th, 2007 8:43 pm

    I will be out there Saturday running with the rest of the runners in America and all around the world celebrating the life of Ryan Shay and our own love filled lives. I have also dedicated my current blog post to the family and friends of Ryan along with my own family.

  58. Fred Galloway on November 12th, 2007 7:45 am

    I’ll be running my 5.5 miles for Ryan and his family. God be with Ryan and his family and friends.

  59. Darlene on November 12th, 2007 8:13 am

    I will run on Nov 17.

    I am running a marathon on december 1 and I will dedicate to Ryan. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

  60. Ray Johnson Jr on November 12th, 2007 8:21 am

    I was in a cab, just leaving the NYC Marathon expo when I learned of Ryans death.Even though I did not know him personally, I felt like I had just been hit in the stomach.
    I will run & Pray for you guys.
    You are in out thoughts & in our stride.

    Ray

  61. Sean on November 12th, 2007 9:20 am

    5.5 out, 5.5 back on the Trails on Saturday. Ryan will be greatly missed, but never forgotten

  62. Bosco on November 12th, 2007 9:22 am

    Anyone organizing this for the Philly races on Nov 18th? Thx

  63. Jenn on November 12th, 2007 9:29 am

    There’s a makeshift memorial in Central Park where Ryan took his last step. I will be at Rockefeller Center at 7:35 AM and run to this site in his honor.

  64. BGTG on November 12th, 2007 10:16 am

    I’ll be running 5.5 beginning at 7:35 a.m. on Saturday here in Michigan. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ryan’s family and friends. Although I wish Ryan did not have to pass away to remind me to do this … ever since the 3rd I have been kissing my family before I go out for my run. You never know when it will be your last and we must savor all that life has to offer while we can.

  65. justin on November 12th, 2007 12:44 pm

    Count me in. I dedicated my run that day to Ryan, and will dedicate this one as well. My thoughts go out to all of his family and friends.

  66. Scot on November 12th, 2007 12:46 pm

    Im doing a 4 mile race Sat in South Florida. Ill make sure everyone there is aware. I Plan to do 1.5 for awarm up. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ryan’s family and friends.

  67. Joanne on November 12th, 2007 1:26 pm

    I will run on Saturday

  68. David on November 12th, 2007 2:10 pm

    I pray the inner peace we feel when we run will be felt by Ryan’s family and wife on that day. God Bless.

    David

  69. Meredith on November 12th, 2007 2:23 pm

    I’ll be running here in Chicago.

  70. Charles White on November 12th, 2007 2:30 pm

    I am in for the run on Saturday, November 17th.

    I started to run at the suggestion of my Doctor. I run a lot now. I follow running as a sport as was so saddened by what happened.

    I am by no means an elite runner, but I will run for Ryan on Saturday.

    What a tribute to a great runner!

  71. justin on November 12th, 2007 2:51 pm

    i know this can’t heal the hearts of his family and friends, but i will think of Ryan on my run Saturday.

  72. Sallie Beth Johnson on November 12th, 2007 2:56 pm

    The Sandhills Striders will run 5.5 for Ryan during the Pinehurst Turkey Trot 10K-Half Marathon.

    Thoughts and prayers to all of Ryan’s family and friends from Pinehurst, North Carolina.

  73. Wendy S. on November 12th, 2007 3:52 pm

    I’ll propose this to my running group, Chicago Endurance Sports. In the meantime, I’ve already committed all of my runs through the end of 2007 in memory of Ryan!

  74. Hilary on November 12th, 2007 4:26 pm

    There is a group of us in Mont Vernon, NH who will be dedicating our 5.5 mile run on Saturday to Ryan.

  75. Tara on November 12th, 2007 4:55 pm

    I’m in; ND alumni here- I’ll wear Blue and Gold.

  76. David M on November 12th, 2007 4:57 pm

    This is a wonderful idea. I’ll plan a 5.5 miler for Saturday (with a 12 mile cool down) in Ryan’s memory. My thoughts will be with him, his family and his friends.

  77. Steven Spittler on November 12th, 2007 5:05 pm

    I will get my entire indoor track team to do it. It is great to see the running community unite.

  78. Timo Mostert on November 12th, 2007 5:45 pm

    My boys cross-country team (AFXC – Utah)will be in Tempe, Az. this Saturday for NTN Regionals. We are dedicating our warmup, 5k race, and cooldown to Ryan’s memory. If your team is going, let’s join up for the cooldown together.

  79. Carlton on November 12th, 2007 5:57 pm

    Richmond, VA will be represented. 5.5 for Ryan.

  80. 5.5 4 Ryan « Run Along on November 12th, 2007 6:08 pm
  81. Stacy on November 12th, 2007 6:24 pm

    My mom and I will be running for Ryan. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ryan’s family.

  82. ron on November 12th, 2007 6:31 pm

    My son Bryan and I will do 5.5 here in Cleveland in Ryan style! We will run as fast as we can the entire way.

  83. kyle smith on November 12th, 2007 7:03 pm

    i have a 1/2 marathon that morning so i’ll run for him.

  84. Mike R. on November 12th, 2007 7:09 pm

    My wife and I are training for our first marathon. We have our 20 mile run on Saturday. Ryan’s story has inspired us and we plan on slowing for a short prayer at 14.5 and running the last 5.5 for Ryan.

  85. Sub on November 12th, 2007 7:12 pm

    5.5 Miles in Redmond,WA in Ryan’s memory on Sat…

  86. Becky on November 12th, 2007 7:43 pm

    On Saturday the 17th I will be running the JFK 50 Miler, I am dedicating the final 5.5 miles to Ryan

  87. Jean-Marie Chan Kin on November 12th, 2007 7:58 pm

    Count me in. Jean-Marie from Toronto, Canada.

  88. John Moseley on November 12th, 2007 8:12 pm

    I will running in Vancouver

  89. GB on November 12th, 2007 9:48 pm

    I will dedicate Saturday’s run to Ryan, and his family. God bless.

  90. Matt on November 12th, 2007 9:53 pm

    Count me in. I am running in a 7 mile off-road race in Iowa on Saturday. I will dedicate the first 5.5 miles to Ryan, and then I will keep on running as fast as I can to the finish!

  91. Mitchell C on November 12th, 2007 11:27 pm

    I will run 5.5 miles on a treadmill in honor of Ryan Shay this Saturday the 17th.

  92. Laura Lohr » Please Run for Ryan on November 13th, 2007 1:06 am

    [...] Join the Complete Running Network and dedicate your own 5.5 mile run next Saturday, November 17th in memory of Ryan. Run the exact distance, or dedicate a 5.5 mile portion of a longer run in his memory.  You can read the complete article about Ryan’s untimely death here. [...]

  93. max on November 13th, 2007 1:43 am

    Count me in. I will be running in Singapore. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

  94. addy on November 13th, 2007 7:08 am

    I have a 6 miler scheduled friday which will be dedicated to the memory of ryan.

  95. Katie on November 13th, 2007 7:27 am

    Will be doing the run in WIlmington NC…He was actually quite an inspiration for me and is sadly missed.

  96. Marty McGinn on November 13th, 2007 7:37 am

    Reading about Ryan made me want to get back into running and fulfill a life-long goal of running a marathon. I want to take those first steps toward my goal this November 17th when I run 5.5 for Ryan here in China. Shay family, you are in my thought and prayers.

  97. niCk on November 13th, 2007 7:39 am

    I have a 5K race scheduled for that date, I will run an extra 2.4 miles in memory of Ryan, and will get as many of the other runners as I can from our club here to join me

  98. Jess.E. on November 13th, 2007 8:25 am

    I’ll be running 2.4 on saturday then running a 5k on sunday in michigan

  99. matthew on November 13th, 2007 9:33 am

    I will run 5.5 for Shay in Portales NM.

  100. Shawna B. on November 13th, 2007 12:48 pm

    I’ll be running in Virginia in honor of Ryan. Many miles will be logged in his memory on the 17th – a great way to memorialize an exceptional runner and person. I feel honored to be a part of this.

  101. Marshall on November 13th, 2007 1:50 pm

    I’ll be in South Bend for the weekend and will get up on Saturday morning to run 5.5.

    Leaving the Morris Inn at 8:30….

    Be there if you can.

    -marshall

  102. Ros on November 13th, 2007 4:31 pm

    I will… he’s inspired me to train hard and get too know my limits!

  103. Ravensee Jackie Blue on November 13th, 2007 4:32 pm

    I will join and for a great runner.

  104. El Corredor on November 13th, 2007 4:34 pm

    I will most definately run 5.5 for Ryan here in my little town in Michigan.

  105. Mandy Cargile on November 13th, 2007 4:58 pm

    I will be running this Saturday- count me in!

    I will be praying for the friends and family of Ryan- what a horrible loss, and so very young. Everyone appreciate your loved ones today. :)

  106. Nic Plemel on November 13th, 2007 5:04 pm

    I’ll be putting in my miles as well… it’s wonderful to be surrounded by such a supportive community.

  107. celine on November 13th, 2007 5:14 pm

    count me in from cleveland ohio

  108. Ben on November 13th, 2007 5:19 pm

    I’m in from wherever I might be.

  109. jeff on November 13th, 2007 5:43 pm

    I”m in ! 5.5 for Ryan Shay.

  110. Debbie on November 13th, 2007 6:00 pm

    My first 5.5 miles of the JFK 50 will be in honor of Ryan.

  111. Ferd on November 13th, 2007 6:05 pm

    Definitely in.Run 5.5 for Ryan.

  112. Mark on November 13th, 2007 6:53 pm

    I’m in, a fitting tribute to someone who was taken too soon.

  113. Renée on November 13th, 2007 6:58 pm

    I’ll be doing my 5.5 for Ryan in Ithaca, NY.

  114. Andy Amoroso on November 13th, 2007 7:02 pm

    I’ll pound out 5.5 in Langhorne, PA.

    Go Irish!

  115. Lorelei Leigh on November 13th, 2007 7:04 pm

    I’m a newbie, and not quite up to running 5.5 miles straight just yet. I can probably run/walk that far, so I will do it, from Gulfport, MS.

  116. Matt Flaherty on November 13th, 2007 7:53 pm

    Running an early Turkey Trot 5k in Bloomington, IN — I’ll dedicate it to Ryan, along with a 2.4 mile cooldown.

  117. Andrew on November 13th, 2007 8:05 pm

    I will run 5.5 for Ryan in Cullman, AL.

  118. Jeff on November 13th, 2007 8:25 pm

    I will be dedicating the first 5.5 miles of my recovery run in Clinton, NJ, on Saturday to Ryan.

  119. Ben Runnin on November 13th, 2007 8:44 pm

    I’m in for the 5.5 here in West Palm Beach, Florida.
    This will actually be the first time runnin this far but I’ll give it my best.
    My thoughts and prayers go out to Ryan and Family.

  120. RIck on November 13th, 2007 8:56 pm

    I will be dedicating my 5.5 training run for Ryan in Channahon, IL on Saturday.
    His passion for running will inspire all of us.

  121. Max on November 13th, 2007 9:17 pm

    Ryan’s death is truly devastating to every runner past or present. His career and accomplishments extend far beyond running itself. I hope everyone, and myself included, realize and remember what a rare runner and person Ryan Shay was.

  122. Hovie on November 13th, 2007 9:24 pm

    Thanks for the idea, I’m in. Been a while since I have done 5.5, but this is one time it is ok to over extend.

  123. Nathaniel on November 13th, 2007 10:11 pm

    5.5m for Ryan Shay.

  124. Monte on November 13th, 2007 10:18 pm

    Count me in for two 5.5 milers here in KY this Saturday.

  125. kristi on November 13th, 2007 10:43 pm

    I am so in! thank you for the motivation to spend some quality running and thinking!!

  126. Adrian on November 14th, 2007 3:54 am

    I’m in and offer my condolences from the other side of the world.

    Adrian (Sydney)

  127. Amber Drake on November 14th, 2007 11:04 am

    My girlfriend and I will run 5.5 for Ryan…
    We will be spectating at the Ultracentric 24hr Championships in Grapevine, Texas and will be thinking of the loss that Ryan’s family and the entire running community have experienced.

  128. Chelle on November 14th, 2007 11:30 am

    It is an honor to run 5.5 for Ryan on Saturday.

  129. Ryan W on November 14th, 2007 12:50 pm

    I will be honored to run in memory of Ryan. I am a barefoot runner. (www.runningbarefoot.org)
    I stand with (“run with”) all who love the experience of running – in all its styles and forms. Thank you to all others who are participating — and let others know you are running with purpose!

  130. mekonen on November 14th, 2007 1:21 pm

    5.5 miles for one of the greatest Rayn Shay

  131. Beach Dweller on November 14th, 2007 1:37 pm

    I was watching the Olympic Trials via internet feed early Saturday morning and got the most tremendous inspiration. Ryan’s amazing accomplishments will continue to inspire. I’ll be lacing up for my 5.5 in Myrtle Beach, SC this Saturday.

  132. kate on November 14th, 2007 1:39 pm

    I’m in from rural Missouri, my thoughts are with his family and friends.

  133. jen and natalie on November 14th, 2007 5:23 pm

    ohhh we are so running saturday!!!

  134. This is where I begin « Gypsy Coins & Peacock Feathers on November 14th, 2007 5:36 pm

    [...] think tomorrow is an appropriate start date because I am also participating in the Run for Ryan on Saturday. I want it to be a challenge, but I want to be able to finish it. I have two of my [...]

  135. Erin on November 14th, 2007 6:03 pm

    Ryan, I’ll give you all I can! 5.5 will be a new record for me…I’ll do it!

  136. Dmitri on November 14th, 2007 6:26 pm

    Great initiative, Jeff! I am in as well!

  137. David on November 14th, 2007 10:15 pm

    Everyone will see me on the streets on November 17th!

    R.I.P. Ryan Shay.

  138. All Downhill From Here » Tag & Some Speedwork on November 14th, 2007 11:17 pm

    [...] either the oval or Club Night – got a swim date with the Little Swimmer. I will be running at least 5.5 miles for Ryan on Saturday, though. Posted by karen [...]

  139. kathy on November 14th, 2007 11:44 pm

    absolutely

  140. Matt Patchell on November 14th, 2007 11:46 pm

    The San Francisco Road Runners will honor Ryan and his family this Saturday.

  141. Brook on November 15th, 2007 12:29 am

    Inspired, motivated. 5.5 in Salt Lake for Ryan and his family. Thank you for reigniting a forgotten passion.

  142. Tracy on November 15th, 2007 7:41 am

    I’ll be running for Ryan in Vermont.

  143. Round Rock Fit on November 15th, 2007 8:41 am

    We are training for the AT&T Austin Marathon – 500+ members. The first 5.5m of our 10mile training run this Saturday morning will be dedicated to Ryan and his family. Thoughts, Prayers & Miles…..

    Coach Mark

  144. Gomez on November 15th, 2007 9:23 am

    I already have my run mapped out.
    It’ll be the 2nd farthest I’ve ever gone, but I’ll gladly do it.

  145. SFRunner on November 15th, 2007 12:06 pm

    Will think of Ryan during my run on Saturday.

  146. Judy Medeiros on November 15th, 2007 12:15 pm

    I am stationed in Helsinki, Finland, and I will be proud to run 5.5 miles for Ryan on Saturday. I’ll will forward this to my fellow military members and I am sure they will run in memory of Ryan as well.

    My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

  147. runr1 on November 15th, 2007 12:52 pm

    What a loss to our community. My prayers to th Shay family.
    RIP
    Detroit

  148. Octavio on November 15th, 2007 3:10 pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

    I am running a 4 mile race on Saturday and will run in Ryan Shay’s honor.

  149. Richard Cooper on November 15th, 2007 3:48 pm

    My heart goes out to the Shay family. Woodlands Fit is Marathon training program and right now we are in the middle of training for the Houston Marathon. We have 300 members in our group on Saturday morning our training groups will dedicate the first 5.5 miles of our runs in honor of Ryan..Godspeed!!

  150. Carrie on November 15th, 2007 5:52 pm

    My husband and I will run for Ryan and his wife. It’s such a horrible tragedy. I can’t ever imagine going through what Alicia is dealing with right now. My heart goes out to her.

  151. Adam & Sarah on November 15th, 2007 8:02 pm

    My wife and I will be sure to dedicate our run in San Diego to Ryan on the 17th.

  152. LMB on November 15th, 2007 8:04 pm

    I will be running 5.5 for Ryan in Southeastern Michigan. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

  153. Julie on November 15th, 2007 9:26 pm

    I’ll be running for Ryan in the Boston area. My heart goes out to Ryan’s family and friends…especially his wife…so very, very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts!!!

  154. Akshaye on November 15th, 2007 9:33 pm

    Jeff, I am in and spreading the word. I know of many who are committed to doing this. Its the least we could do to express our loss.

  155. Jen on November 15th, 2007 10:06 pm

    I dedicated my run on Tuesday to Ryan and his family. It was the best run I’ve had since a hip injury in July. May God’s peace be in your hearts; find your strength in Him.

  156. Jan on November 15th, 2007 11:13 pm

    I will run 5.5 miles on Saturday the 17th at 7:35AM from Philadelphia. I will dedicate my run to Ryan and his loved ones.

    Jan

  157. James on November 16th, 2007 3:37 am

    I would be honored to do it.

    I will run the distance in Helsinki Finland tommorow.

  158. Michael Sanders on November 16th, 2007 8:06 am

    I will be honored to dedicate the last 5.5 miles of the JFK50 on Saturday in tribute to Ryan’s memory. The running community mourns his loss and prays for his family and friends.

  159. Jay Davis on November 16th, 2007 9:41 am

    we will be doing the run in boston.

  160. Carl Albright on November 16th, 2007 9:52 am

    I’ll run through the dawn in northeast PA.

  161. the funner runners on November 16th, 2007 10:03 am

    our running group (Gillette, Wyoming) will stop 5.5 miles into our Saturday morning run to honor Ryan.

  162. Stacey Thar on November 16th, 2007 10:09 am

    I’m recovering from a knee injury and going to do my best to get in 5.5 In Denver, CO

    My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the Shay family.

  163. Miranda Irby on November 16th, 2007 10:19 am

    I’ll be joining the gang in Gillette, WY. I am so sorry to hear about Ryan, but what a great way to honor his memory.

  164. Jenni Winter on November 16th, 2007 10:19 am

    My thoughts and prayers go out to both families. We will be thinking of you tomorrow on our run.

  165. Carmen on November 16th, 2007 10:20 am

    Running for Ryan’s memory and thinking of Alicia……from Gillette, WY

  166. Matt on November 16th, 2007 11:03 am

    I will do the run, and invite others to do so on my blog.

  167. Ryan Shay Memorial Run - November 17th « MaJa’s Running Blog on November 16th, 2007 11:14 am

    [...] Shay Memorial Run – November 17th 16 11 2007 The Complete Running Network is promoting the Ryan Shay Memorial Run for tomorrow, November 17th. Shay was the U.S. elite marathoner who tragically died during the [...]

  168. Ted on November 16th, 2007 11:46 am

    Done.

  169. Ryan B on November 16th, 2007 1:09 pm

    Count me in. I will be running 5.5 miles for Ryan. Great idea.

  170. Frank on November 16th, 2007 1:13 pm

    The US do not stand alone in mourning. I will be running 5.5 miles tomorrow for Ryan. My next race I’ll run for him and for the young people with heart problems.
    Frank from The Netherlands

  171. Tim Mousaw on November 16th, 2007 1:21 pm

    I’ll be running in Rochester, NY. If anyone wants to join me, feel free to drop me a line.

  172. Deazy on November 16th, 2007 3:10 pm

    I will run a wet one in Oregon for Ryan.
    My prayers are with his family and all who miss him

  173. fred cramer on November 16th, 2007 4:18 pm

    I’m in! Ryan and his family will be in my prayers. East Stroudsburg Pa.

  174. Dee Grant on November 16th, 2007 4:25 pm

    Tomorrow’s run will be special honoring Ryan, praying for his family and giving thanks for the precious gift of life. Representing from Fort Lauderdale.

  175. ErikFloydWebb on November 16th, 2007 4:29 pm

    I will join those headed out at 7:35 on 50th St. and on to “Ryan’s Rock”. He was a great runner, who came to rest in a great running city.

  176. Tim O on November 16th, 2007 4:37 pm

    Running 5.5 in my ND gear for Ryan, Alicia, and the Shay family.

    Peace and prayers.

  177. Todd & Stephanie on November 16th, 2007 5:24 pm

    We found out about Shay’s death while watching CNN on our honeymoon in Paris. We couldn’t believe it. Shay is a teammate and friend of ours and will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Alicia. Being newly married ourselves, we can’t imagine her pain.

    We will each be doing 5.5 tomorrow.

    Todd & Stephanie

  178. Waddler26.2 on November 16th, 2007 7:27 pm

    I will be out the running my 5.5 for Ryan with my dog sending my prayers to his family.

  179. Julie on November 16th, 2007 8:21 pm

    I’ll be running tomorrow for Ryan – Colorado Springs, CO

  180. Benjamin on November 16th, 2007 11:27 pm

    We all have hit a most difficult wall with the loss of Ryan. My prayers certainly do go out to those who will feel his absence the most.

    Tommorow I will be running my 5.5 miles in Snowflake, AZ in memory of Ryan and his love for running.

  181. Danielle on November 17th, 2007 7:31 am

    Will leave in an hour to run my 5.5.

    My thoughts are with his family.

  182. All Downhill From Here » Don’t Waste the Gravity on November 17th, 2007 7:50 am

    [...] (probably not doing the whole loop). I will be dedicating the first 5.5 miles (9k) of my run to Ryan, some of it to Dorothy, and if any of that makes the force of gravity seem to strong, I will recall [...]

  183. Howard on November 17th, 2007 10:28 am

    I’ll be heading out for my normal Sat. noon run and will dedicate the first 5.5 of my 7.5 to Ryan and his loved ones. Cape Cod, Mass.

  184. Nate on November 17th, 2007 10:43 am

    I ran against (or should say far behind) Ryan in college during my last year at Syracuse. I ran my 5.5 this morning. May he rest in peace, and peace be with his family.

  185. Mark on November 17th, 2007 11:12 am

    I live next to Central Park and during the 25th mile of the NYC Marathon I crossed my heart and said a prayer as I ran past the Boathouse where Ryan was lost. My thoughts are with his family and friends left behind. I messed up my knee in the marathon but I’m heading out the door now to do 5.5 and will finish it at the Boathouse. Here is to a spirit that lasts forever, and to all runners.

  186. Mike on November 17th, 2007 11:31 am

    This is a great idea. I am in.

  187. Rosita Gomez on November 17th, 2007 1:27 pm

    I ran the 5.5 miles today and thought about Ryan the entire time. RIP and God Bless

  188. K on November 17th, 2007 2:01 pm

    The Woodlands Fit program (Texas) ran in his honor today!

    My his family find peace and comfort in this valley of tears.

  189. Mark on November 17th, 2007 4:01 pm

    5.5 strong for you at Central Park today, Ryan, finishing at the Boathouse and a special prayer right there for you, my friend who I didn’t know in person. Will have it on my blog at http://marathonomy.blogspot.com. Run always.

  190. DawnB on November 17th, 2007 4:19 pm

    I did my dedication run today. My heart goes out to his family. God bless you all.

  191. Suzanne on November 17th, 2007 8:23 pm

    Peace be with you and your loved ones, Ryan. I ran for you in Newburgh, Indiana today.

  192. Mary Ellen Jordan on November 17th, 2007 9:15 pm

    A group of 15 runners met today 11/17/07 in Cleveland, OH to run in memory of Ryan Shay. We ran 5.5 miles along a local race course here, which is called the “Hero’s Run.” We felt it was an appropriate route to take in Ryan’s honor today. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. May peace be with them.

  193. Bill on November 18th, 2007 7:45 am

    My prayers are with the Shay family. I dedicated my 5.5 mile run Saturday in Paducah, KY to Ryan’s memory.

  194. Suzanne DeFoe on November 18th, 2007 4:10 pm

    My running club, Salubrious Running, in Minneapolis ran 5.5 in memory of Ryan, Saturday, 11/17/07. It was a beautiful crisp morning run along the Mississippi River – Ryan was in our hearts and minds.

  195. CrzyDJM on November 18th, 2007 4:23 pm

    I ran my 5.5 yesterday morn and ran the last mile as hard as I could, for him…

    R.I.P. Ryan…

  196. Juli on November 18th, 2007 9:06 pm

    Ran 5.5 +5 miles for Ryan yesterday. R.I.P. Ryan. May your memory inspire many more runners. from Ft. Myers, FL

  197. LM on November 18th, 2007 11:09 pm

    Many Team Athena women dedicated a 5.5 mile cooldown to Ryan Shay and family on Saturday. (Portland, OR)

  198. Ryan Shay Inspires Thousands Across the Nation (and beyond) to Run in His Memory » Complete Running Network on November 19th, 2007 4:31 am

    [...] on Ryan Shay 5.5 Mile Memorial Run in Your Hometown: Saturday, November 17: Many Team Athena women dedicated a 5.5 mile cooldown to Ryan Shay and family on Saturday. [...]

  199. A Passion for Running » My Run for Ryan Shay on November 19th, 2007 12:05 pm

    [...] so proud of my friend Jeff for rallying the web’s runners around Ryan Shay’s [...]

  200. Mark Iocchelli on November 19th, 2007 12:09 pm
  201. Jenny on November 20th, 2007 6:31 pm

    5.5 for those who live and love running. 5.5 for those who grieve. 5.5 to feel alive. God has used you Ryan and will continue to use your life and experience to the benefit of others. You live on.

  202. Pony on November 20th, 2007 6:52 pm

    I ran 5.5 for Ryan on Saturday.

    I prayed for his wife, his family, his friends.

    I prayed for runners and coaches and future runners who will be touched by the legacy Ryan left behind.

    I prayed for myself that I would be able to run pain-free again someday soon.

    I thanked God that I was out there running and for all the wonderful gifts that He has blessed me with through running.

  203. Diane Legate on November 21st, 2007 10:01 pm

    Run Gazelle of Grand Rapids, MI ran 5.5 miles on November 17. We encouraged each other to be thankful we can run and to strive to positively impact another runner’s life as Ryan Shay has done to so many.

  204. Erin on November 22nd, 2007 4:07 pm

    I ran 5.5 on Nov 18th as well in honor of Ryan Shay. It was special for me because it was also the 7th anniversary of my father’s death. He was a runner.

  205. George on December 3rd, 2007 10:04 am

    I joined in on the run! It was a moving day! I committed to pray for Ryan’s family on every run I did in the month of Nov. It was extra special running on 17th.

  206. A Million Stories : Complete Running Network on January 27th, 2008 11:32 pm

    [...] have the ability to do really wonderful things. I want to thank my friend Jeff for organizing the Ryan Shay run. It was a fitting tribute to a positive running role model. Thanks [...]

  207. Nicole Evans on June 2nd, 2008 9:02 am

    What an amazing individual. I will run five miles and dedicate it to you for sure. I spent time with you and your teammantes and Joe Vigil in Mammoth training. Great athlete, kind person and never looked down on anyone. Me and my best friend Mara are praying for you and your wife, family , coaches and teammates.

    Love and respect always,

    Nikki

  208. Michael Cannon on August 30th, 2009 8:38 am

    I ran a 2 mile race at his fathers property for m high school xc team, and this is such a sad story.





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