They Ran 100 Miles in 1 Day for America. Here’s Why.

Running 100 miles in 24 hours isn’t something most people could accomplish. But for the men who completed Project 100, the challenge wasn’t just about endurance—it was about patriotism.

Never Surrender USA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring and educating the next generation of Americans to be healthy, strong, and patriotic. Its latest initiative, Project 100, challenged participants to carry an American flag 100 miles from Oceanside, California, to the Venice Beach Pier as a team.

Every 25-mile segment was dedicated to honoring a different Gold Star family, recognizing Americans who lost loved ones in military service.

Nick Salonites, executive director of Never Surrender USA, said the organization was created in response to what he believes is a growing crisis facing young Americans.

“We believe our generation is facing an existential health crisis, with rising rates of obesity, chronic illness, depression, suicide, and declining civic engagement. We work to redefine what it means to be a healthy American in the 21st century—we’re committed to building a generation that lives with greater health, resilience, purpose, and service,” he said.

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At the finish line in Venice Beach, exhausted runners reflected on their motivations for completing such an intense challenge.

Da’Quan Law, who crossed the finish line carrying both a wooden cross and an American flag, gave God the credit for helping him complete the race. “God is good. He gave all of us the strength to get from San Diego to this point, so the credit goes to Him.”

Law also encouraged young Americans not to be afraid to openly love their country. “Don’t be shy to be patriotic about the great country we live in. Keep spreading the love for the Lord and embrace Him in everything you do.”

Others said the race wasn’t only about testing physical limits—it was also about encouraging people facing struggles that aren’t always visible.

For Alex Burns, that meant raising awareness about mental health. “I want people to know they’re loved, and people care—I care. Life is good.”

Banks Gaines said the race reminded him that perseverance is often what unlocks opportunity. “I just ran 100 miles from San Diego to Los Angeles. I knew there was going to be highs and lows. Understanding that you’ll come out the other side OK is what keeps me going.”

Gaines said those lessons extend beyond running and reinforce his love for America.

“America is the best country on Earth. There are so many opportunities,” he said. “If you look at the guys who did this run, everybody’s either a business owner or has a social platform—showing that opportunities are endless if you’re willing to pursue them. If you just look for it, this is the land of opportunity, and they call it that for a reason.”

He also encouraged Americans to invest in their physical health.

“It’s very important to honor your body—you only have one life. The way you treat and honor your body when you’re 15, 20, 25, and 30 is going to show when you’re 60, 70, and 80 years old.”

After completing the run himself, Salonites said he hopes Project 100 sends a message that patriotism remains alive among young Americans.

“We made a statement here today. There are young people in this country who are patriotic. We love our country, and regardless of your political party, we can all find common unity in the fact that we are all Americans,” he said.