What Four Events Qualify for Distinguished Participant Status?

In November 2017, just over 230 runners walked away from the Turkey Trot with the very exclusive Distinguished Participant medal around their necks. Earned for a year of remaining always faithful (Semper Fidelis) to running with the Marines, this medal is the most limited in release of all the awards distributed by the MCM organization. Ambitious runners who seek to distinguish themselves and earn this rare hardware should plan to #RunWithTheMarines on four event dates and choose from eight different distances to meet the necessary requirements.

1-May 20 in Fredericksburg, VA. Runners will earn their first qualifying finish by completing the Historic Half, Semper 5ive or Devil Dog Double. Registration is open now for all three event distances–the half marathon, five miles or 18.1 miles, combining both event courses. Historic Half registration offers on-demand pricing. As of mid-February, entries are available for $15 off the final registration fee.

2-June 23 on Marine Corps Base Quantico. The June and August segments of the DP challenge offer the greatest variety in how a runner chooses his or her path to Distinguished status. To earn the second qualifying event, participants may run a 4.97 mile course through the woods or a three mile course while confronted by mud and wild obstacles. Run Amuck features messy mud pits and fun fitness challenges. The new Belleau Wood 8K marks 100 years since the battle that earned the Marines the nickname “Devil Dogs.” Just like the Marines that emerged from the woods a century ago, 8K participants will run through the woods of Quantico. Registration for both events opens on February 28. Belleau Wood 8K details to be released soon.

3-August 25 on Marine Corps Base Quantico. Two very different events will be co-hosted at Quantico’s Officer Candidates School. The Quantico 12K is a 7.45 mile run that concludes adjacent to the OCS obstacle course. The Quantico Tri features a 750m swim in the Potomac, a 12+ bike ride and a 5K. Swim, bike, run or just run for the third DP qualifier. Registration opens April 25.

4-November 17 on Marine Corps Base Quantico. The year-long challenge concludes outside Quantico’s Lejeune Hall where the Turkey Trot 10K and Mile start and finish. Wild turkey costumes, a petting zoo and fun participant shirts mark a festive conclusion to the annual running calendar. Distinguished Participant medals are awarded at the finish before everyone gathers for a triumphant group photo. Registration opens June 13.

Distinguished status is open to runners of all ages. Remember the special Next Generation discount is available to participants age 17 and under. Join the Marines on this journey of distinction. Four events=one awesome medal. The Distinguished program is sponsored by VA Runner and Always Advancing.

Thanks for visiting this archived blog. The content and details are specific only for the event year highlighted in this article. For current information, please visit the event page within the MCM website.