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Russ Holland is longtime resident of Powhatan County and serves on the Economic Development Authority.  He is an IT Specialist at Dominion Energy as well as a part time health and run technique coach.  His is an avid runner and has participated in Ultra runs up to 100 miles, Ironmans and Marathons.

Like many, Russ remembers September 11th, 2001 and the events that unfolded that day. Recently, as Russ was reading a book about ultra-running, he was reminded by its author to give back to the community what running has given to so many. This is when The Powhatan 343 was born.

Russ’s original idea was to complete a run in memoriam to the fallen 343 FDNY first responders who lost their lives that day in New York. And he wanted to also honor the local first responders in Powhatan County. Initially he dismissed the idea, but experienced several signs that encouraged him to at least chase down the prospect. So, he made some calls to see if it was even possible to put together an event in such a short time. What he found was an amazing, supportive community. 

The Powhatan 343 – A Benefit for First Responders event will be held on the Powhatan High School Athletic Track.  Russ will run one lap for each of the fallen firefighters – a total of 343 laps (that’s almost 86 miles, if you’re counting!). He will start his run at 12:01 am on September 11th and finish around 7:00 pm that night. He encourages everyone to join him in honoring First Responders by running a lap (or laps) with him or following his run on his Instagram (rehollandjr).

There is also an account for donations that is set up to benefit the Powhatan County Firefighter’s Association. All donations that are received will go directly to each of the Fire and Rescue Companies operating in Powhatan County. If you would like to donate, please click the secure link below. There will also be a donation station at the event if you prefer.

If you would like to “Run with Russ” (you don’t have to run), simply come by the school and check in at the main office! After school hours, just come down to the track. Anyone who completes a lap can enter a drawing to win a brand new Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music watch, generously donated by the Garmin Company!

Your donations will be used for equipment and personnel support, such as purchasing: Hydraulic Extrication Equipment ($25,000); Automated Defibrillators ($1,700); Uniforms and protective gear  ($1,800); Stethoscopes ($175); Thermal Imaging Cameras ($6,900); Advanced Airway Devices ($3,500)