By Jared Harding Wilson
Every July 24th, the streets of Provo, Utah, come alive with the Temple to Temple Run, a vibrant 5K race that’s been a beloved tradition for over a decade. This year, I laced up my sneakers for my first-ever run in this incredible event, and let me tell you—it was a thrilling experience that blended fitness, community, and heartfelt remembrance. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to celebrate, this race is something special. Here’s my story, plus a little insight into why this event means so much to so many.
A Race with Purpose
The Temple to Temple Run isn’t just about crossing the finish line; it’s about honoring loved ones who’ve passed on. Before the race, I wrote the names of my little brother, Louis Wilson, and my wife Sarah’s grandpa, Paul Olsen, on my race bib. The idea of running in their memory gave every step extra meaning, much like traditions in other cultures where people honor their ancestors. Think of the scene in Disney’s Mulan, where Mulan lights incense at her family’s shrine to pray for guidance, or in Coco, where Miguel’s community celebrates the Day of the Dead by remembering their loved ones with photos and offerings. In a similar way, this race lets participants carry the names of those they’ve lost, keeping their memory alive with every stride.
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (like me), the race’s start and finish points—two beautiful temples in Provo—hold deep significance. Temples are sacred spaces where we perform ceremonies to connect families across generations, even after death. Running between them felt like a celebration of those eternal bonds, not unlike the reverence Mulan shows her ancestors. It’s about love, legacy, and keeping those connections strong.
The Origin Story: A Stroke of Inspiration
I arrived early, buzzing with excitement, and found myself chatting with LeGrand Richards, the former Temple President who started this tradition 12 years ago. He shared how the idea sparked while he was biking between the Provo and Provo City Center temples. Realizing the distance was a perfect 5K, he thought, “Why not turn this into a race?” Tired of the usual pancake breakfasts as the only Pioneer Day celebrations in Provo, he wanted something fun and meaningful to bring the community together. LeGrand ran the race himself four times, and his enthusiasm was contagious. He told me last year’s event drew around 20,000 people, and this year they hoped for 25,000! Talk about a party on the pavement!
My Race Day: Faster Than I Expected!
I’m training for the Hobble Creek Half-Marathon, so I saw the Temple to Temple Run as a chance to test my legs. Normally, I clock about 10-minute miles, but the energy of the crowd and the slightly downhill course had me flying. When I crossed the finish line in just under 24 minutes—averaging 7:44 per mile—I was floored! My wife, Sarah, was waiting for me, and the rush of adrenaline and joy was unreal. The race was so well-organized, with cheering spectators and a festive vibe that made every moment unforgettable.
A Deeper Connection: Honoring Family
Running with Louis and Paul’s names on my bib brought back a sacred memory of performing a special ceremony in the temple for my little brother, Louis, after he passed away. Inside those holy walls, I felt a profound connection with him, as if he were truly there, just beyond the veil—a term we use for those who’ve passed on. I miss him dearly, but I felt his love and presence in that moment, bridging the gap between us. That’s what the Temple to Temple Run captures: a way to honor those we’ve lost while feeling their presence in our lives.
This idea of connecting with loved ones resonates deeply in my faith. President Russell M. Nelson, a leader in our church, once said, “Our message to the world is simple and sincere: we invite all of God’s children on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, receive the blessings of the holy temple, have enduring joy, and qualify for eternal life.” This quote captures why we cherish these traditions—whether it’s a race or a temple ceremony, it’s about building bridges between the past, present, and future.
Why You Should Run It
The Temple to Temple Run is more than a race; it’s a celebration of family, community, and the joy of movement. Whether you’re running for someone special, chasing a personal best, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, this 5K has something for everyone. It’s a chance to honor those who came before us, much like the traditions in Mulan or Coco, and to feel part of something bigger. It happens on or near Pioneer Day, July 24th, here in Utah every year I’m already counting down to next year’s race in 2026, and I hope you’ll join me! Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Photos by Jared Harding Wilson. All rights reserved.
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