5th Annual
SSGT Taylor Hoover Memorial 5K
Run, walk, or participate virtually in honor of SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover and the 13 service members killed in Kabul on August 26, 2021.
Who Was Taylor Hoover?
“My Son, Taylor, lived with a rare kind of purpose- the kind that can’t be taught, only carried in the heart. As a United States Marine, he served with unwavering devotion, guided not by rank or recognition but by the quiet strength of his character. He loved God, family, and his brothers-in-arms, and he showed that love through action: steady leadership, loyalty, and a courage that never needed to announce itself. He brought light wherever he went, with a sense of humor that could break tension in an instant, impressions that left everyone laughing, and movie lines delivered with perfect timing. He cherished the beach, adored his dogs, and embraced life with an openness that made people feel seen and valued. He carried big hopes for the future, and he carried that hope with a gentle, earnest heart. To know him was to witness kindness, strength, and joy woven together. He was- and will always be – an extraordinary soul.”
– Kelly Barrnett, Mother of Taylor
The Viking Spirit
The Viking spirit reflects the same qualities Taylor carried through life and service: fearlessness, loyalty, strength, and unwavering commitment to others.
The Viking symbol is deeply connected to the warrior mindset embraced by many service members, especially within expeditionary military communities like the United States Marine Corps. It represents fearlessness, resilience, adaptability, and the strength to face harsh environments head-on.
For Taylor, these values were more than symbols. They reflected the way he lived: loyal to his brothers, committed to serving others, and willing to run toward challenges instead of away from them. Today, the Viking spirit stands as a reminder of the courage, unity, and legacy this event continues to honor.
FEARLESSNESS
Running toward adversity with courage and conviction.
BROTHERHOOD
Standing beside others through every challenge.
RESILIENCE
Enduring hardship and continuing forward.
STRENGTH
Mental, physical, and moral toughness.
LEGACY
Honoring those who continue to inspire others.
13 Days of Honor
challenge beginning September 7, leading up to race day. 5K Run/Walk
Main event on September 19 at Worthington Park.
Virtual Option
Participate from anywhere and honor Taylor your way.
13 Days of Honor Challenge
Beginning September 7, participants can take part in a 13-day CrossFit challenge leading up to the Memorial 5K. Each day represents one of the 13 service men and women killed in Kabul on August 26, 2021, including SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover.
This challenge is more than a workout. It is a daily act of remembrance, discipline, and gratitude.
RX
8 rounds for time of:
• 400-meter run
• 15 burpee box jump-overs
• 10-calorie bike
• 6 alternating dumbbell snatches
• 20-inch box and 50-lb dumbbell
• 24-inch box and 75-lb dumbbell
Intermediate
6 rounds for time of:
• 400-meter run
• 15 burpee box jump-overs
• 10-calorie bike
• 6 alternating dumbbell snatches
• 20-inch box and 35-lb dumbbell
• 24-inch box and 50-lb dumbbell
Beginner
4 rounds for time of:
• 200-meter run
• 10 burpee box step-overs
• 7-calorie bike
• 6 alternating dumbbell snatches
• 12-inch box and 10-lb dumbbell
• 20-inch box and 15-lb dumbbell
Why We Run
The SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover Memorial Foundation was created to honor the life, service, and legacy of SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover, as well as the 13 service members killed in Kabul on August 26, 2021.
Through community events, scholarships, veteran support, service dog assistance, and outreach initiatives, the foundation carries forward the values Taylor lived by: honor, courage, commitment, leadership, and service to others.
Every registration, donation, and sponsorship helps continue that mission.
Register for the 5K or CrossFit Challenge
5K Run/
Walk Registration
- September 19
- Worthington Park
-
In-person and
virtual options available
13 Days of Honor
CrossFit Challenge
- Begins September 7
-
Honor the 13 through
13 days of movement
and remembrance
Become a Sponsor
Sponsorships help fund scholarships, veteran support initiatives, service dogs for veterans, and the continued mission of the SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover Memorial Foundation.
Run. Remember. Honor.
Join us September 19 as we honor Taylor Hoover, remember the 13, and support a mission that continues to serve students, veterans, animals, and the community.
