PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Philadelphia Police Foundation’s Market Street Run for Blue event brought together thousands Sunday morning.

This year was especially meaningful after an officer was killed in the line of duty last weekend.

“This is the most powerful way that we can assure our fallen officers are never, ever, ever forgotten,” said President of Philadelphia Police Foundation, Maureen Rush.

Marking the eighth year, the event kicked off in Old City Sunday morning and was emceed by 6abc anchor Sarah Bloomquist.

Around 2,200 people participated, running and walking the 5-mile-course through Front and Dock streets, Market Street and 23rd Street.

The last mile to the finish line was dedicated to the fallen Philadelphia Police Officers.

Action News was there as Commissioner Kevin Bethel tackled the course alongside 6abc anchor, Sarah Bloomquist, who emceed the event.

“I’ve been at it for almost 40 years. I’ve seen a lot. I’ve lost during that time period numerous officers, so never a final mile for me, it’s a marathon,” said Commissioner Bethel.

This year’s event comes just one week after two Philadelphia police officers were ambushed in West Philadelphia.

Forty-year-old Officer Shane Seiber died, his 33-year-old partner, Officer Hector Rodriquez left critically injured after being shot 12 times.

“He’s got incredible family support, but his recovery is going really well, we are grateful for that,” said Bethel. “It is miraculous. I think he is a man of strong faith. His family is a family of strong faith. We continue to pray for him.”

People of all ages participated.

“I finished in like 44 minutes. Something like that. I’m very proud of my time. I think I did very good,” said Qurazz Overton of Mayfair.

“We wanted to be blue, I feel like we’re doing something important, and I feel like we’re our own little super heroes,” said Sgt. Janean Brown of the Philadelphia Police Department.

Money raised goes towards equipment, technology, and safety training for officers.

After the race, there was a formal ceremony announcing fastest runners in each category.

Organizers say this year, the foundation is on track to raise more than $260,000.

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