Oh, the Strength They’ve Gained

Most of the MDS runners are fast asleep right now, some are staying up all night to dance and celebrate. Sunday will be the wonderful post race party and awards celebration. Monday most will board a plane to go home. Get ready to hear some amazing stories, see some wonderful photos all we hope to be shared on my blog.


They will be only too happy to give up cooking their meals in plastic bags under the heat of the Saharan sun for the wonderful food they have at the awards ceremony.

Many other Dreamchasers are running a different race some where else, some are North Carolina running the Umstead 100 others are running American River 50 mile, half marathons and so on. Larry King reported that he ran a 4 hour 50k time and took 3rd place...yet another best time for Larry.

Jay called us right we he got back to the hotel and sounded wonderful. He said his feet are in perfect shape as usual and that he felt really good all the way but had a small cold and his shoulder hurt. It was so great to hear his voice. Our kids are counting the minutes for him to get home.

So…as I sit here to write this blog I am so full of emotions. It has been very hard for me and Colleen to be on this side of the race and watching from the computer but it has been a real joy to watch the progress of all of you. I bet I have had over 2,000 emails this week with people asking about all of you. Next year Colleen and I won’t be on this side of the race we will step up the starting line with all of those who dare to dream to run the 2009 MDS!!! My eyes are sore from looking at the computer so much but it has all been worth it.

It has been a long week for me in lots of ways and I feel like I have run a race. Two sick kids for close to 10 days, one after the other...I guess it was meant for me to stay close to home. I am happy to repost my father is holding his own and is getting a little better with each passing day. I am thankful.

Jeff Arricale’s wonderful wife has had her share of it to this week and feels like she ran the MDS:) Great news was baby Gracie was going home from the hospital and then their daughter Sammie got a great crack in the head and had to have a plastic surgeon repair the wound! Jeff and Jess, we are praying for all of you that this next week is full of love and laughter and that goes for everyone reading this blog post today.

It is impossible for me to single out anyone who just completed the MDS today for I am beyond thrilled at the efforts of each and every one of them.

Many placed very well in the race, and some were in the back of the pack. I have said it all along, first or last they are all heroes and champions for they have conquered something that is beyond what most can comprehend.

I have had many say to me, "I don't even drive my car that far." 152 miles in 6 days in the most harsh conditions is impressive to say the least. Bare with me on this long blog we have tonight but there is much to say:)

I tried to find one quote that would express my feelings as a coach and as a past competitor of the MDS but I could not just pick one, so here are a few.

"Never doubt that a small group of committed individuals can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead

"Only those who risk going two far can possibly find out how far one can go." -TS Elliot

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." -Theodore Roosevelt

"There is nothing like a dream to create the future." -Victor Hugo

"Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance toward the summit keeps the goal in mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from each new vantage point. Climb slowly, steadily, enjoying each passing moment, and the view from the summit will serve as a fitting climax for the journey. -Harold V. Melchert....(this one is for you daddy Jay)

I leave you today with this:

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation. I can do everything through him who gives me strength! -Phil. 4:12-13