Every once in a while, we receive a message that reminds us why we do what we do.
Back in 2024, we heard from Pat and his wife after they visited the Indiana Dunes National Park. While exploring one of America’s greatest natural treasures, they came upon the field of American flags that Leon’s Heroes had proudly placed overlooking Lake Michigan.
This is what they shared with us:
“We wanted to share a couple spectacular photos of the flags Leon’s Heroes (Leon personally greeted us) put up at the Indiana Dunes National Park. My wife and I were on a short trip from Indianapolis to Chicago this past weekend and stopped to see the dunes and encountered this amazing site. We were so honored and humbled by the display and what the flag means to so many. We were further floored to meet Leon and be fully embraced in the love and passion he has for the entire meaning of the flag. Thank you for sharing your story and your efforts so that we may all enjoy the beauty of your hard work.”
Blessings,
Pat Kress
Messages like this mean more to us than we can express.
They remind us that what we are building is about much more than athletic competition. It is about creating moments that inspire gratitude, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for our country and those who have sacrificed to preserve it.
That same spirit comes alive each September at our Obstacle Course Race, held at the beautiful West Beach location within Indiana Dunes National Park, America’s 61st National Park.
The Indiana Dunes are truly one of our nation’s treasures. Few places in America bring together such diverse landscapes while also telling the story of our country’s industrial strength. Here, towering sand dunes, the shoreline of Lake Michigan, steel mills, refineries, and communities that helped supply America through world wars all exist side by side. It is a powerful reminder that nature, hard work, and American ingenuity have long shaped our nation’s story.
Our obstacle course winds through this remarkable setting, where participants don’t simply run a race. They experience a journey that honors the perseverance, courage, and determination that have carried America through some of its greatest challenges.
One of the most meaningful moments on the course comes as participants climb the iconic stairs of the dunes. During our 25th Anniversary Obstacle Course Race, held in remembrance of September 11, those stairs become a powerful symbol of the courage displayed by the first responders who climbed countless flights of stairs to save others on one of America’s darkest days. It is a moment of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance that many participants never forget.
Throughout the course, athletes encounter obstacles that symbolize the challenges America has overcome during the past 250 years. While no race can ever compare to the sacrifices made by our Military, Veterans, and First Responders, we hope each participant leaves with a greater appreciation for the resilience, unity, and spirit that continue to define our nation.
Today, we are just 53 days away from this year’s Obstacle Course Race on Sunday, September 13.
Whether you come to race, volunteer, cheer on participants, or simply experience the incredible setting of Indiana Dunes National Park, we hope you leave with the same feeling Pat and his wife experienced.
A renewed appreciation for our country.
A deeper gratitude for those who have defended it.
And a reminder to count our blessings every day that we have the privilege of living in the greatest country on earth.
From all of us at Leon’s Triathlon and Leon’s Heroes, thank you for allowing us to share this journey with you.
We hope to see you at the Indiana Dunes this September as we honor our veterans, remember our history, and celebrate the enduring spirit of America.
Photos courtesy of Pat Kress