The Muhlenberg wrestling team ran in the Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run at Parkland High School yesterday.

Manion, a first lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, was killed in Iraq in 2007. He was a wrestler at The Naval Academy and grew up locally in Doylestown, Pa.

The foundation created in his honor supports families of fallen soldiers. According to its website, "TMF is redefining America's national character. In an increasingly divisive cultural climate, we unite and strengthen communities. Our nation needs role models that inspire and we should look no further than the civic assets already living in our communities."

The Mule wrestlers collectively donated $560 to the cause - and they also did pretty well as runners. Senior Jake Gordon placed second overall out of more than 200 runners. Senior Ben Peck was fifth overall and won gold in the 20+ age bracket. Freshman Tommy DiSisto came in seventh overall and won a gold in his age bracket (15-19). Sophomore Austin Sherman took bronze in the 15-19 bracket and placed ninth overall.

"It was an absolute honor to participate in such an amazing event, especially given the significance of 9/11 for this state and country," said Gordon. "Our 20+ minutes of pain running a few miles is incomparable to the sacrifice of countless members of the armed services.

"Our team will continue to run and honor the memory of Travis Manion and those that perished in the terror attacks for years to come."

The Muhlenberg wrestlers were honored as the distinguished team by the event coordinators.