PEACE LOVE RUN

Three words that speak the world. What started out as a T-shirt design has transcended into a codification of all that is good with running in Nebraska. Gina Gottsch of Artwears Unlimited presented the original design and it has since morphed through a couple of tweaks, by our own Bill Weeks. It appears on t-s, sweatshirts, hoodies, technical tops, and the recently released knit caps. One of the highlights for me on Saturday was the number of people lined up to purchase some of this gear. We announced that proceeds go to our TNB apparel fund. This is how we are able to offer our kit to everyone that wants to represent, regardless of financial status. If it is a hardship, its free, simple enough. It was also heartwarming for me to let people know that their entry fees contribute to the opportunities of our Good Mates. We will be sending close to 20 people to Seattle on Dec. 9-10 for the USA Club XC National Championships. Our open athletes are fully funded for the trip, our masters athletes receive a small travel stipend as well. We couldn’t do it without you, Peace Love Run.

Especially our Wednesday night Omaha Endurance Group. This program too has grown and in the best ways. What started out as a small and dedicated group of athletes meeting up once a week has developed into an ever expanding community of positive minded people that care about running in Nebraska. And every one of them desires to train towards their own potential. This is the forum I was meant for in Omaha. Peace Love Run.

Another way to support the mates is to get your 2012 USATF membership. At $29.95 per year your membership includes Fast Forward, the quarterly publication that keeps up with America’s best. It also grants discounts at various car rental, hotel, and other participating businesses. Best of all, a small portion of each adult (non youth or official) membership comes directly back to the USATF Nebraska Association’s Long Distance Running (LDR) program. www.usatf.org/membership Peace Love Run.

The 29th annual YMCA Masters Classic was Sunday. Killer Coach wants us racing through this training cycle so several of us got our giddyup on. Linda Barnhart was the 1st Overall female in the 5K in a quick 20:10. Kelly Crawford was Overall Masters Male in the 5K in 18:00. Justin Mollak was the Overall winner in 16:47, followed by Ben Schultz in 17 and change (I can’t find any results). I was well back in 21:11 and it is with a Hearty Adios that I bid that old speedster Sweet Lou Soukup a Feliz Cumpleanos as he turns 60 tomorrow, not to haunt my age group door for at least another 6 years!

Peace Love Run.

Laurie Halpenny is having her best year of running and racing ever. She and training partner Denny Gray have pushed each other and are tearing up the fall schedule.