Runners in Moncton kicked off their Father’s Day on Sunday with a poignant tribute the city’s fallen RCMP officers who weren’t able to spend the day with their families.

It was the second year for the 3 km for the 3 Fathers Memorial Run, honouring Const. Doug Larche, Const. Dave Ross and Const. Fabrice Gevaudan who were shot to death in the line of duty a year ago this month.

"They were good men, they were great members, but most importantly, they were awesome dads,” said Nadine Larche.

Larche, the wife of one of the fallen officers, told the crowd of runners and walkers that Sunday’s tribute was a fitting one.

“The men we are honouring and remembering today — Doug, Dave and Fabrice — all enjoyed running,” she said.

Organizers had hoped to see 1,000 participants come out, but in the end they doubled their goal, drawing about 2,000 people to Moncton’s Bore Park.

"My husband loved to run,” said Larche.

“He would be running at lunch hours and after work and before work on these very trails that we're going to be running on today, so it's very special for me."

Wearing red shirts adorned with three maple leaves and the names of the fallen officers, the runners and walkers created a sea of red.

RCMP officers dressed in red serge lined the route, as runners stopped to give them hugs and words of appreciation as they passed by.

Organizers have said they want the event becomes an annual one, and Larche said she hopes it does.

"It's very important for me to see these events continue. It's a positive day for me and the girls, somewhere to be on Father’s Day,” she said.

“It's beautiful to see the support of the community, to come together and do something my husband loved doing."

New Brunswick RCMP Assistant Commissioner Roger Brown thanked participants for the ongoing support the community has shown police since last year’s shooting in Moncton.

"Today is Father’s Day and it's hard to imagine — six kids without their dad,” he said.

“But you have to try and remember what they gave, and they gave everything. They gave their lives and that needs to be focused in on today."

Community was a big part why Monique Gallant felt it was important to bring her family out for the event.

"We couldn't think of anything else to do on Father’s Day but to be here and be part of this,” she said.

"I think it's awesome. I think this is the best way to celebrate dads being here and those who can't be, but still showing signs that we're all a big family,” she said.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Ashley Blackford