Please forgive me if this is oft told but one of my favorite stories involves the Lucky Boar’s nose. On The Plaza down in Kansas City. I took Annie Bersagel there for the tradition the night before she won our USA Half Marathon National Championships an age ago.
Terry Drake and his wife Lisa were the Race Directors. Had been for years and American distance running were the better for it. They are no longer part of the race but I was proud that Hospital Hill hosted our Half Champs several times.- Before that they were in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and the Garry Bjorklund Half and Houston Half also served as champs during my tenure. All deserving of their own tales. It was my work with these leaders that allowed early opportunities to develop Nebraska distance runners.-
As recently as 3-4 years ago Hospital Hill featured an Elite Club Competition. Clubs from Colorado, Nebraska, good ones too, came and vied for some pretty serious prize money.
I know the weather has been tough but looking at the race results I’m a little saddened. Times across the board indicate that the direction of the race doesn’t jive with the competitive athlete any more. Que Lastima!
The Boar’s Nose. Bestower of good fortune.
About Author
