Annual Memorial Obstacle Course for Fallen DPS Trooper Scheduled in La Feria
The community of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) prepares to honor the legacy of a local hero this Saturday with the annual Trooper Moises Sanchez Obstacle Course Run, set to take place at La Feria High School. This event not only tests physical endurance through challenging tasks but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper Moises Sanchez, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in 2019.
A Tribute Beyond Fitness
The event, now in its fifth year, was inaugurated in 2020 to commemorate Trooper Sanchez’s dedication and sacrifice. Sanchez was stationed in Palmview and was fatally injured while attempting to apprehend a suspect following a car crash incident. His battle for survival lasted four months, with his passing on August 24, 2019, marking a profound loss for his family, friends, and the broader law enforcement community across the Valley.
“He continued pushing and pushing, trying to survive. This event is a way to push your limits, test your limits and keep pushing to the end, just as Trooper Moises Sanchez did,” said DPS Sgt. Guadalupe Casarez, emphasizing the perseverance embodied by the course.
A Community Coming Together
Each year, the obstacle course attracts an increasing number of participants, including law enforcement officers, fire department personnel, and community members eager to pay their respects and challenge themselves. The run covers approximately two miles, incorporating various physically demanding activities such as push-ups and bear crawls. Yet, the heart of the event lies in its representation of solidarity and community spirit.
Sanchez’s eldest son, Zachary, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a DPS trooper, represents the Sanchez family in the competition alongside other regional law enforcement agencies. This annual gathering underscores a shared commitment, not only to physical fitness but also to the values of resilience and fortitude that Trooper Sanchez personified.
Funding a Lasting Legacy
Proceeds from the event contribute to the maintenance of the Trooper Moises Sanchez Memorial Highway sign. This symbolic marker was unveiled near the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg last year and serves as a perpetual reminder of Sanchez’s indelible impact on the Valley community.
“We’re not just law enforcement, we’re family members,” Sgt. Casarez remarked, highlighting how these moments forge community connections and emphasize the network of support surrounding those dedicated to public service.
Looking Forward: Enhancing Local Impact
As the Valley continues to face challenges and triumphs, events like the Trooper Moises Sanchez Obstacle Course Run play a critical role in reinforcing community bonds across South Texas. They also offer new growth opportunities by promoting RGV news, engaging residents, and encouraging collective engagement in local issues.
This year’s event will take place on Saturday, with registration available online for $40. The run will begin at 7 a.m., and participants are advised to arrive by 6:30 a.m. at La Feria High School, with designated parking on the north side of the stadium.
For more details, interested individuals can contact the DPS office in Weslaco or visit the event’s official webpage. By fostering these initiatives, the RGV community continues to demonstrate its resilience, unity, and commitment to honoring those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their safety.
Conclusion
The Trooper Moises Sanchez Obstacle Course Run is more than a commemorative event; it is a testament to the enduring strength and unity of Valley residents. By coming together in Sanchez’s honor, the community fortifies a legacy of courage and dedication, setting a standard for future generations. As Valley residents lace up their running shoes and prepare for the challenging course, they remind us all that true strength lies in perseverance, remembrance, and the enduring bonds of community.
