The annual free 9/11 Memorial Workout is being held on Friday morning (Sept. 13) from 9 to 11 a.m. at the new sports court in the SLS Centre.
This workout is more than just an exercise event—it is a symbol of resilience, solidarity, and respect. With an exercise to honour each fallen hero, ensuring their legacy lives on in our hearts and actions.
Nine years ago, firefighter Jeremie Hoult created it as a way to bring people together to remember the 412 first responders who laid down their lives in New York during 9/11. They were among the 2,977 lives lost in an attack on the World Trade Centre in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001.
It will be the eighth year Stephanie Marrello, SLS Centre fitness programs coordinator, has participated since joining the SLS Centre staff.
"I participated and I was so inspired that I let Jeremie know how much it impacted me," she says.
They worked together to modify the workout to include one exercise for every single fallen first responder.
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A dear friend of Marrello was one of the first Canadian paramedics on the scene at 9/11. She was finishing a shift in the Niagara region of Ontario when she heard of the attack.
"They filled their ambulance with supplies and drove straight there. She's just the most incredible person and said she was impacted by that day."
Marrello says if you're on the fence about participating that it's well worth giving it a try.
"You workout at your own pace and it's incredible thing to do alongside so many inspiring heroes. Even if you cannot complete the entire workout, I think just coming to this kind of event and showing your support to the first responders in our community is well worthwhile."
Veterans and active duty first responders are especially encouraged to participate, and modifications will be available to ensure everyone can participate at their comfort level.
The workout doubles as an opportunity for people to check out the new sports court surface in the SLS Centre. This will be the first major event held in what was previously known as the turf.
