Honoring those who served QUINCY Participants head out for the starting one mile run of the Quincy Family YMCA’s Murph Challenge and 5K Honor Ruck, held Monday at the Illinois Veterans Home to honor the men and women who have served while giving back. The first-time event offered the challenge – a 1 mile run, 100 pull ups, 200 pushups, 300 squats and a 1 mile run – and the 5K walk, with an optional ruck sack or weight vest, with all proceeds presented to the veterans home. Participant Erika McKinney said the 5K was meaningful for herself and her daughter Hailey. “We come from a military family. It’s a good way to honor them on Memorial Day,” McKinney said. YMCA Wellness Director Jason Copeland said the Murph workout is done every Memorial Day in the crossfit and military space. “I’ve been doing this about 14 years as an instructor in crossfit. This is my first year at the Y, and I wanted to run a similar event,” he said. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

After a 1 mile run, Murph Challenge participants complete 100 pullups, 200 pushups and 300 air squats before another 1 mile run. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

After a 1 mile run, Murph Challenge participants complete 100 pullups, 200 pushups and 300 air squats before another 1 mile run. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

Walkers in the 5K Honor Ruck head out across the Illinois Veterans Home campus. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

Playing the National Anthem has participants in the Quincy Family YMCA’s Murph and 5K Honor Ruck focused on the flag. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

YMCA Wellness Director Jason Copeland, center, briefs participants ahead of the start of the Murph Challenge. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)

Veterans Assistance Commission of Adams County Superintendent Paul Havermale speaks during opening ceremonies of the Quincy Family YMCA’s Murph and 5K Honor Ruck. (H-W Photo/Deborah Gertz Husar)