Gulf Coast YMCA hosts 42nd Annual Wesson Memorial Run

The Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA held its 42nd Annual Wesson Memorial Run on the Fourth of July.

This event is held in honor of Ray and Ann Wesson , dedicated supporters of the YMCA, and promises to be a meaningful and exciting experience for the participants.

“They were such great supporters of the YMCA and the Ocean Springs community as a whole,” Jara Miller, the CEO of the Gulf Coast YMCA, said. “So this race was started to honor their service to the community and to bring people together to celebrate their lives and what the YMCA does.”

“It just grows year after year, and it’s great for us, the family, and seeing all the people that support this race in our parents’ names,” Ray Wesson Jr. said.

Among the 300 runners, there were Ainsley’s Angels, an organization that pairs endurance runners with individuals who have disabilities that allows them to compete.

“Today is my birthday, so I had to go all out in crazy gear, but I have always loved the Fourth of July,” Kim Griffitt, the ambassador of Ainsley’s Angels said.

It’s year 42 from the race and the one-year friendship anniversary of Ellie Hall and Jocelyn Craig.

Both ladies are 67 years old and met at last year’s race.

“Every time I go out and race, we race right next to each other,” Hall said. “One of us comes in first, one of us comes second. She’s just my idol. She’s a former police woman. Look at these arms.”

Their friendly rivalry continues as they compete head-to-head in every race.

“She came in first,” Craig said.

Runners pushed through the scorching heat for satisfaction at the finish line.

“When you get done, it’s all smiles and watermelon,” Griffitt said.

“The shade… after the race,” said Calvin Taylor, an Ocean Springs resident.

The Wesson Memorial Run — not only honoring the family’s legacy but bringing the community together.