Tunnel to Towers Foundation 5K Run/Walk Cypress Returns September 6 to Honor First Responders and Military Heroes
The Tunnel to Towers 5K Run/Walk Cypress is back on Saturday, September 6, at John Paul Landing Park (9950 Katy Hockley Road, Cypress, TX 77433), marking its fourth year of bringing neighbors together to honor the memory of 9/11 and salute local first responders, law enforcement, and military service members.
Born out of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation carries forward the legacy of New York City firefighter Stephen Siller, who ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel with 60 pounds of gear to reach the Twin Towers—where he gave his life. Each year, the Run & Walk Series across the nation helps keep that story alive while raising funds to support the families of fallen and catastrophically injured first responders and military heroes. The Cypress/NW Houston event alone has set a fundraising goal of $50,000 this year.
Event Details and Registration
The 5K covers 3.1 miles, and participants are welcome to run, walk, or push strollers and wheelchairs. Firefighter turnout gear and military backpacks are also permitted, making the event both symbolic and community-driven.
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- Race Day Registration: Opens at 6:45 a.m. (shirts not guaranteed for late signups)
- Packet Pick-Up
- Wednesday, Sept. 3, 5:30–8:30 p.m. at World of Beer (9945 Barker Cypress, Ste. 106, Houston, TX 77433)
- Thursday, Sept. 4, 5:00–7:00 p.m. at PJ’s Coffee (2533 W. Grand Parkway N., Katy, TX 77449)
- Registration Costs: Adults $40, First Responders & Military $35, Youth (13–17) $25, Children (12 & under) $15
Participants must wear their bib number visibly for safety. Competitive runners pacing faster than six minutes per mile will be seeded at the front.
Awards and Community Spirit
A highlight of the Cypress Run/Walk is the competition for the Siller Cup, awarded to the largest First Responder Team. For two years running, the Cy-Fair Fire Department has taken the prize, but other teams are encouraged to step up this year.
Awards will also be presented for:
- Fastest firefighter, law enforcement officer, active-duty military, and veteran
- Top male and female finishers (adult, teen, and child categories)
Post-Race Celebration
After crossing the finish line, the community is invited to continue the celebration from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at World of Beer Towne Lake, featuring a free beverage for runners with a coupon and a silent auction hosted by Spring Creek Area Blue Star Mothers TX18.
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How to Support or Get Involved
Even if you can’t participate in the run itself, the Foundation encourages residents to donate, cheer along the course, or volunteer. Donations will be accepted for six weeks following the event, and community members can still sponsor or contribute goods and services. Volunteer opportunities are available by contacting cypress@t2t.org.
Every step at this event helps ensure that the Foundation can continue its mission of doing good—just as Stephen Siller did on 9/11.
For details or to register, visit runwalkcypressnorthwesthouston.t2t.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
