Sailors assigned to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk and their families ran a 5K on the historic Chambers Field runway during a "Run on the Runway" event hosted by NAVSTA Norfolk Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), July 15.

"It's a beautiful day to get out of the office and move around," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Bryson Deguchi, from Kaneohe, Hawaii. "I enjoy participating in command events to stay active and stay in shape. I'm proud to be a part of this historical event."

The Run on the Runway event is the first event in the history of the field to be held on the actual runway. Chambers Field has never been open in this capacity, but since it was shut down temporarily for maintenance Capt. Doug Beaver, NAVSTA Norfolk commanding officer, utilized the timeframe to open it up and promote fitness in the Navy.

MWR partnered with Air Operations to coordinate the event.

"Most people never have the opportunity to walk on an airfield and this event affords them that opportunity," said MWR Director Chris Robus.

An event such as this helps bring Sailors and their families together.

"I am proud to be out here with all these Sailors and their families," NAVSTA Norfolk Command Master Chief William Caraballo said. "To be able to run alongside everyone is a great opportunity."

A diverse crowd participated in this event from Navy captains and midshipmen to master chief petty officers and seamen.

Winning first place was Courtney Fullilove, son of Master Chief Master-At-Arms Aurelius Fullilove, with a time of 20 minutes, 25 seconds.

"I was looking for something to break up my cross country training," said Fullilove. "I wasn't expecting to win first place; I just wanted to finish. It was hot out there."

Fullilove plans on attending the U.S. Naval Academy or the U.S. Air Force Academy after he graduates from Lake Taylor High School.

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For more news from Naval Station Norfolk, visit http://www.navy.mil/.