COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — People all across central Ohio are remembering those who lost their lives 22 years ago in the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, with several events across the region marking the day, ranging from ceremonies to workouts.
At the Ohio Statehouse, there are nearly 3,000 flags to honor the lives of those lost during the attacks.
Over at the Historic Crew Stadium, an Ohio State Highway Patrol cadet class will be doing a workout to honor the first responders who lost their lives. The Ohio Department of Public Safety is hosting an inaugural 9/11 climb for its 172nd cadet class, being held in partnership with CrossFit Crave.
“It took a little bit to put all of that together, of course, and we’re getting… we’re excited,” CrossFit Crave co-owner Matt Shindeldecker said. “So there’s a workout that’s planned.”
That workout will last for 41 minutes and 20 seconds to represent the 412 first responders who died that day. The workout is 100 stairs/steps, 20 burpees, 30 sit-ups and 40 lunges/air squats for as many reps as possible in the time limit.
However, it’s not just in Columbus.
“It is being broadcast publicly on the Ohio Channel, so that has been sent out to every first responder office in the state of Ohio and every CrossFit affiliate in the state of Ohio,” CrossFit Crave co-owner Debbie Wagner said.
The event is a way to honor the way those first responders went into the World Trade Center together: the workout will be done in teams of two.
“Whether you’re a military member or you’re a first responder of any firefighter, police officer, dispatcher, EMS, you’re typically working in units of pairs, you’re on call with someone else,” Shindeldecker said.
The event at the stadium is just for the cadets, but people are invited to do the workout at home or at their own CrossFit gym.
Others can mark the day with a Patriot Day ceremony and free admission at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
“It’s a nice way to honor those who served, those who continue to serve, and those who lost their lives, and I think it’s just a wonderful way to give back to the community and help the community in Columbus to honor as well,” National Veterans Memorial and Museum Guest Experience Manager Ashley Legg said.
There will also be a remembrance ceremony at First Responders Park in Hilliard.