2025 Navy SEAL LT Michael P. Murphy Run Around the Lake sponsored by the Ronkonkoma Rotary just took place.
The race beneficiary, The LT Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation, was founded by Murphy’s family in 2007, driven by his belief that “education will set you free.”
Michael Patrick “Murph” Murphy (May 7, 1976-June 28, 2005) Local Hero, Michael Murphy, was born and raised on Long Island where he served as a Town of Brookhaven lifeguard at Lake Ronkonkoma. Instead of attending Law School at Penn State, he joined the Navy Seals.
Murphy was 29 years old in June 2005, when he perished in a fierce firefight in mountainous terrain along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in Operation Red Wings as the leader of a four man SEAL team. Michael was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions. LT Murphy also received, The Silver Star, Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.
Using their own funds, the Murphy family began this foundation to honor Michael’s legacy and support students who embody his values. The Foundation continues to grow, awarding scholarships that keep Michael’s spirit and service alive!
“We want to give a big thank you to everyone who came out yesterday! All your support means the world to us and the families of the brave men and women who have fallen for this country. It's an honor to help celebrate Michael Murphy's legacy and we can't wait to see you again next year!,” said the family.
The Race Around the Lake was started in 1980 by the Ronkonkoma Rotary. In 2011, Dan Murphy, Father of Navy SEAL LT Michael P. Murphy, approached the Ronkonkma Rotary to ask if we would team up with the Michael Murphy Foundation and use the race to honor and remember his son and the other men who made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Red Wings.
Rotary accepted this honor and in 2012, the Navy SEAL LT Michael P Murphy Run Around the Lake was born. Approximately 900 runners participated and since that time we’ve added a certified Half Marathon course and grown to over 3600 runners.