GOLD STAR INITIATIVE

Overview

The Gold Star Initiative gives veterans the chance to team up and honor Gold Star Families by carrying an American flag during the run portion of select IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 events and presenting it to a local Gold Star Family at the finish line.

Tell Me MORE

The Gold Star Initiative is a program in partnership with wear blue: run to remember, a national nonprofit running community that honors the service and sacrifice of the American military.

Through the Gold Star Initiative, IRONMAN athletes will be able to play a part in the healing process of those families who have lost a loved one in the name of freedom.

To view the Gold Star Initiative video series, click HERE.

Gold Star Initiative Athletes

Who can join?

Athletes who have served in the United States military are eligible to apply for the Gold Star Initiative.

In 2021, athletes may apply to participate at five select races:

IRONMAN 70.3 Superfrog
IRONMAN 70.3 Santa Rosa
IRONMAN Santa Rosa
IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside
IRONMAN Arizona

What do I receive as a Gold Star Initiative athlete?

Opportunity to run with the American flag and present it to the Gold Star Family at the finish line, as well as holding the flag during the National Anthem and connecting with the Gold Star family before, during and after the race.
Low bib number
Priority athlete check-in and bike racking
Invitation to select IRONMAN Foundation events and service projects
Two (2) VIP passes for race day
Custom run singlet

What do I have to do as a Gold Star Initiative athlete?

If selected, complete agreement and waivers.
Agree to fundraise $500 if you have your race entry or $1,750 if you need a race entry.
Set up a custom fundraising page.
Hold the flag during the National Anthem on race day.
Carry the flag during the run portion of the event and present it to the Gold Star Family.
Engage in race weekend activities, including the opportunity to connect with the Gold Star Family before, during and after the race.

How do I apply to serve as a Gold Star Initiative athlete?

Complete the application form online. Please note the associated deadlines.

Still have questions?

Contact the IRONMAN Foundation at athletesupport@ironmanfoundation.org.

Gold Star Initiative Families

Who can apply to be a Gold Star Family?

Any family who has lost a loved one in military service and is in the proximity of the selected races.

IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside (Oceanside, CA)
IRONMAN 70.3 Santa Rosa (Santa Rosa, CA)
Sunbelt Bakery IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga (Chattanooga, TN)
IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman (Cambridge, MD)
Certified Piedmontese IRONMAN 70.3 Des Moines (Des Moines, IA)
IRONMAN Santa Rosa (Sanata Rosa, CA)
IRONMAN 70.3 Superfrog (Imperial Beach, CA)
IRONMAN Arizona (Tempe, AZ)

What do I have to do as a Gold Star Family?

Complete the application.
If selected, accept the flag from the Gold Star Initiative athlete on race day.
Participate in race weekend activities. Note that not all are required, based on your comfort level.
As part of the Gold Star Initiative, you will be connected to organizations like wear blue; run to remember, TAPS, and other local organizations to assist in your continued healing. No prior running experience is necessary.