At just 10 years old, Zechariah Cartledge laced up his running shoes and began a mission that would soon touch hearts across the nation. Moved by the sacrifice of fallen first responders and the families left behind, Zechariah used his gift for running to found Running 4 Heroes, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring those who gave their lives in the line of duty. What began as a young boy’s way to say “thank you” has grown into a powerful movement, one that continues to ripple through communities including ours.

Now, as Zechariah prepares to enter his junior year of high school and approaches his 17th birthday, his commitment hasn’t slowed down, in fact, it’s only grown stronger.

(Zechariah is very interested in motorsports and is getting ready to compete at New Smyrna next year. Photo Credit – Running 4 Heroes.)

Zechariah currently juggles two part-time jobs, working nearly 30 hours a week at both Rock & Brews and Marco’s Pizza. His determination to work and save is driven by more than just teenage ambition, he’s just weeks away from purchasing his very first race car, which he hopes to debut at New Smyrna Speedway in Florida next year. This step is part of a larger dream: blending his love of racing with his dedication to honoring heroes.

Even with a packed schedule, Zechariah remains deeply involved with Running 4 Heroes. He serves on the Board of Directors and continues to volunteer for events, including joining the Florida-based Youth Runners as they pay tribute to fallen heroes. He often meets with survivors who visit the organization’s Tribute Hall, lending his time and presence to support and uplift those carrying the weight of loss.

(Zechariah is heavily involved in community events. This young has done so much good for so many people.)

When he’s not working, studying, or volunteering, you can likely find Zechariah behind a racing rig, competing for championships in the iRacing community. He proudly drives the Blue Line Automotive / Running 4 Heroes car for R2R Motorsports, short for “Running to Racing.” He currently holds second place in the points standings for the season.

(Zechariah’s Running 4 Heroes car for R2R Motorsports on iracing.)

Earlier this week, Zechariah addressed a heartfelt comment left on one of his run videos, a comment that questioned whether the mission would continue after his leadership.

“I am beyond proud of the youth runners who continue to keep this organization alive honoring our fallen first responders. Doing this for 6 years, one of the biggest questions I had was ‘Will this all end when I end my term?’ The fact kids across the country are inspired by what I started and have continued the legacy of running for our fallen first responders is definitely heartwarming, and even though one day I pray we won’t need these runs anymore, I love seeing kids want to continue the tradition.”

Zechariah Cartledge is more than just a runner or a racer, he’s a young man with a heart for service, a mind for leadership, and a drive that never quits. His journey reminds us all that age is no barrier to impact, and that honoring our heroes can start with a single step… or a single lap.

Keep up the great work Zechariah!

Photo Credit – Running 4 Heroes Inc.