Jonathan Ladson, 32, from Woodbridge, won the Marine Corps 17.75K today at Prince William Forest Park. He finished the run in one hour, six minutes, and 26 seconds.
For the third year in a row, Ladson and Alex Trouteaud, 44, from Barnesville, Md., were the top two finishers, with Trouteaud trailing by 89 seconds.
From the Marine Corps Marathon organization that organized today’s race:
Though it wasn’t the warmer weather Ladson typically thrives in, the cold and wet didn’t stop him from pushing through and finally winning on his tenth attempt. At the start of 2024, Ladson stated multiple running goals to include taking the 17.75K title. “This was number one,” expressed Ladson.
Rounding out the top three male finishers was Brian Reider, age 38, from Bridgeport, WV. coming in at 1:09:25.
Leading the female finishers was Elizabeth Rodriguez, age 28, from Allentown, Pa. with a time of 1:19:20. “It went really well today,” said Rodriguez. “It was definitely challenging but I thrive on the challenge, so it was super fun. There were lots of hills with a lot of ups and downs, but I really enjoyed it.” Active duty in the Air Force, Rodriguez travels in to participate at multiple MCMO events a year. She is the current Quantico 12K Female Champion.
Coming in as the second place female was Andrea Rodman, age 41, from Bealeton, Va. followed by Alexandra Pena, age 29, from Richmond, Va. Their times were 1:25:27 and 1:26:04, respectfully.
The 1,722 finishers also earned guaranteed entry into the 49th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM). Known as “Access Granted,” finishers also received guaranteed entry into the much anticipated 50th MCM.
The 11.03 mile event, which commemorates the founding year of the United States Marine Corps, is a qualifying event of the 2024 Semper Fidelis Challenge. This challenge is a multi-event combination pushing runners to complete today’s distance, the Marine Corps Historic Half on May 19 in Fredericksburg, Va. and finishing with the Marine Corps Marathon on October 27 in Arlington, Va. The Marine Corps 17.75K is also the first tier of the 2024 Distinguished Participant Program, motivating runners to complete a live event from each of MCMO’s 2024 race weekends.
Runners across the United States are also registered to complete the 17.75K distance virtually. Participants in both the in-person and virtual events received a specially designed technical shirt, finisher medal and more.
Runners have the opportunity to #RunWithTheMarines again on May 19 as part of the Marine Corps Historic Half Weekend in Fredericksburg, Va. Entries are still available online.
Recent Stories
The Stafford County Simply Perfect Wedding Expo is coming up on February 8, 2025, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Fredericksburg! This event is a must for couples planning their big day, featuring top wedding vendors, venues, florists, caterers, photographers, and more—all in one place.
If you’re a wedding professional, vendor opportunities are available, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to connect with engaged couples ready to plan their special day!
Prince William County Sheriff Glendell Hill announced that online applications are open for the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute (VSI) Scholarship Program for the 2025-2026 school year.
The scholarship provides financial assistance to students attending Virginia colleges and universities who are majoring in criminal justice, excluding those pursuing a law degree or legal career. Applicants must obtain a letter of recommendation from their resident sheriff before applying.
Prince William County residents must contact the Sheriff’s Office by April 4, 2025, to schedule an appointment with Sheriff Hill for the recommendation. The deadline to submit the online application and required documents is May 1, 2025. More details and application materials are available on the VSI website.
Prince William County has scrapped its $300 million Route 28 Bypass project, leaving residents and officials debating the next steps for traffic relief. The project, which would have taken 70 homes, faced rising costs, land acquisition hurdles, and a lack of Fairfax County support. Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis Younger criticized the decision, saying her city is “stuck in the middle.” Meanwhile, State Sen. Danica Roem is pushing forward with $62.5 million in intersection improvements. A town hall on Route 28’s future will be held Feb. 26 at Manassas Park City Hall. Read more about what’s next for local transportation.
A pedestrian crash in Nokesville claimed the life of a Manassas man, while Stafford deputies used drones and SWAT tactics to track down an armed suspect who fled into the woods. In another unusual case, an intoxicated man mistook a Bible study for a human trafficking operation, forcing his way inside and threatening attendees. Additional incidents include a DUI arrest, multiple fraud cases, stolen vehicles, and public intoxication. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Click the headline for the full story.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
