The Importance of Physical Fitness for Life – Michael Raff – Gulfport, MS

  I received a email from Micheal Raff of Gulfport a few months ago. He wanted to share about his story about his heart surgery and started back running 142 days later. Very inspiring and I hope you enjoy!

Rod

Fit For Life

As Active Duty Airman you have to maintain good physical fitness. Physical Fitness is a requirement that is tested every 6 months or for some every year. Physical Training (PT) test scores are used for EPR’s, quarterly awards, decorations, and Assignments.  Some Airmen are encouraged to maintain excellent PT scores not so much for personal physical fitness and health but for maintain a military career as well as advancement in the career.  I disagree  I think that Physical fitness should be thought of as a requirement to maintain a long and healthy life not just while in the military but for the many years after you separate or retire from the military. Physical Fitness should be thought of as a way to stay fit for life.

Let me tell you a little about me I recently retired after almost 24 years of active duty. During my entire career I have been in units that made PT mandatory even before it was mandatory Air Force wide. Like most young airman and young NCO’s I did just the minimum required physical fitness to maintain my career and progression with no thought of my overall health for the majority of my career. In 2010 as I was approaching 40 and had a PT test coming up just weeks before 40 so I would be graded as a 30 year old I trained for several weeks doing both cardio and strength workouts with a coach. After the test like many others I maintained my heavy physical activity for a few weeks then injuries and work etc. got in the way and I  went back to just the bare minimums again.

In January, 2012 at the age of 41 with over 23 years in the Air Force I was beginning to show my age. Over the years I had gained an extra 30 pounds with a BMI of almost 28 I was overweight. I had been diagnosed with hypertension in late 2011 and already knew I had a heart condition called Mitral Valve Prolapse. With some minor regurgitation yes this is a fairly common heart problem but I also had a history in my family of early death due to heart problems.  The doctors at Keesler let me know that not only did I need to lose a little weight but also need to keep up with my physical activity so I could enjoy the upcoming retirement years.  I knew it was time to make some resolutions and change my ways.

I decided it was time to do a healthy diet and get back into a routine of good physical activity. I knew that in order to live a long life I should follow the advice of the doctors. As I found out later out in 2012 they were right as I will explain later. I had to make the conscious decision that from now on daily PT would not be to pass a test but to live a long and quality life. I started a healthy diet of following the food pyramid guidelines of the proper amount of fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains etc. I used a calorie counter app to ensure I was maintaining the proper amount of calories daily. No Fad diets etc. just the healthy concept of a well-balanced nutritious diet along with daily exercise. At the same time I managed to come up with a physical fitness routine that kept me active 6 days a week.  3 days a week I would run 3 to 4 miles. And 3 days a week I would do a combination of cardio and strength for about an hour.  As the months went along I watched the weight slowly decrease until I was at a healthy level of a BMI of 22. I continued to maintain the physical activity and healthy lifestyle. I will admit I did cheat now and then a little but not to any excess.

In May of 2012 as part of my retirement physicals I went under a round of Cardiology testing- Echocardiograms, stress test etc. At that point I was told I may require heart valve surgery within five years and yet once again the doctors stressed maintain a healthy diet and remain physically active. I am so glad I listened to my doctors and decided even though I no longer needed to pass PT tests for my military career I needed to pass my final PT test so I can remain a healthy individual enjoying my retirement for a long time. In June I achieved a goal and scored a 94.9 on my last PT test. Then it happened my life changed forever in Mid-September and   I am glad to say although it changed if it had not been for me being so physically fit it could have changed far worse than it did.

In Mid-September I began to fell not myself my energy level had drastically decreased, I could feel my heart palpitating and I started to have anxiety issues. I was having pains and just felt something was wrong. I went to see my PCM who refereed me to my cardiologist. It was in Late October I found out my Mitral valve was severely prolapsing and I would require surgery.  This was rather a shock to me that at the age of 41 I would have to undergo Open heart surgery. In early November I underwent some extensive test procedures to confirm the need for surgery.

At the time of the testing in November a cardiac catheterization and another test were performed. Yes it was confirmed I would need the Open heart surgery but it was also confirmed by my cardiologist that I was lucky I was able to go home for a couple of weeks until the surgery- Why because being so active and physically fit my body and heart were used to the extra activity. Where most people may have been admitted to the hospital to undergo immediate surgery or stay in the hospital until the surgery I was able to go home. I was also told that recovery would most likely be that much easier having a healthy body.

The surgery was not until Late November so during the month of November I gradually became worse my energy level and abilities to do things greatly diminished. Walking 100 yards was a tiring event simple things such as housework or cooking were becoming a great challenge.

At the time of the surgery which was one of the lowest points of my life the surgeons told me my chance of a quick recovery was a lot better due to the fact I had been active and was at an ideal weight after feeling so bad for a few months I almost had my doubts but was determined to agree with them I wanted to get back in shape and enjoy life once again.

The first few days after surgery were very rough not only the pain but just any type of activity sitting up in a chair was a challenge. My second walk just about 30 hours after surgery I passed out after walking only 20 feet. After 5 days in the hospital I was released and sent home with a rehab schedule for 6 weeks of daily walks increasing the time. Each day I felt stronger and more like my normal self. At 6 weeks post-surgery I started Cardiac Rehab where I would spend an hour  three times a week being supervised on cardio machines. At the same time I began to participate in a training program to complete a 5K run called couch to 5K. My goal is to participate in my first 5K event on Feb 15^th at the KAFB health Heart Run. Unsure if I will run the entire 5K with my next goal to completely run in another 5k on March 9^th.

I have definitely learned and am proud to say that all those PT sessions in the Air Force have paid off in more ways than one. I am able to enjoy life with a new aspect and feel a lot better each and every day.

Now some of you might be saying well I don’t have time for PT my day is too busy with meetings or counseling sessions or the work load etc. Some may say well I don’t enjoy running and just don’t want to run. I will admit I was the same way. My last active duty job kept me very busy with a good amount of stress. I discovered that running was a good stress relief if you think about it the right way. I was able to manage my daily schedules so that by the end of the day I could allow myself that one hour etc. needed to work out. For running sometimes I would listen to music as I ran other times I would just think. I would use the time running to think about the day and decompress from the stress. Before I knew it the 3 miles of running were done and not only was I a little less stressed but physically was better as well. Some days I may have been so busy the workout time was no longer in the schedule so I would manage to add an extra few minutes to my time walking the family dog at night so the walk would at least keep my activity level up.

Overall I have to say that daily physical fitness in the air force is not just to stay fit to check off a box on an EPR or an award/decoration but it is to maintain that ability to help you live a long and healthy life.

Spotlight on Mississippi Athlete: Cynthia Thompson – Jackson, Ms

 

 

 

We’re so excited to have Cynthia Thompson form Jackson with us! Cynthia lost over 100 plus by exerciing and changing her diet. She aslo ran her very first half marathon on April 6th. She had accomplolish a lot over the past year. Hope you enjoy!

 

Cynthia, thanks for joining us today! Tell us about you, the family and your occupation?

 Well Rod, I was born and raised in Chicago, Il. I was raised in a family that loves to cook and eat and all of our family gatherings were surrounded around huge, fun and loveable meals.  I moved to Jackson back in 1998 when I came to JSU as a freshman and I met and married my husband, Emon Thompson who is from Magee, MS. Together we have 7 children, 6 of which I birthed, 2 sons and 5 daughters. I have carried on those traditions of cooking huge southern style meals within my own family and over the years it has shown.  I currently work for my church, Greater Bethlehem Temple Church as the Assistant Communications Director. 

 

Tell us about your struggles with being obese?

 My struggles with weight started early on, as I mentioned, while growing up our family was much like the one portrayed in the movie “Soul Food” where we would gather every Sunday afternoon after church at my grandmother’s house for a big sunday dinner.  That tradition passed on to all of her daughters, including my mom where we continued to create opportunities just to get together to spend family time and eat good, birthdays, lifetime events such as graduations, anniversaries, and just because times, all surrounding around having good ole fashion eating good.  Not bragging, but my momma and her sisters can throw down in the kitchen.  Anyway, I have always been the chubby kid, overweight, wearing larger sized clothing, even into my adult life. In high school and college I kind of strected out as they say, so the thickness looked more appropriate but in my mind I struggled with the thoughts, “you are fat and overweight”.  I look back at my pictures now and say girl you were beautiful and wish I could go talk to that young girl and encourage her to just love herself.  Once I got married and started having children of my own the weight just seemed to pile on.  After each child I would gain and retain about 20-30 lbs, until one day in the doctors office, she said to me, “Mrs. Thompson, you are what is called Morbidly Obese and you have to do something about it”. I weighed in that day on the scale at 313 lbs and I am approx 5′ 3″-4″ tall.

What was the turning point in changing your lifestyle?

My turning point was feeling miserable all the time, I would hurt morning, noon and night. My back ached, my legs and knees would hurt, I kept an almost constant headache and would not feel like doing anything at all. I would get winded just walking up one flight of stairs or going to mailbox.  I had somewhat of a limp in my walk, because of the back and knee pain. I would wake up in the morning with headaches and feel like I had not slept at all. Just stayed tired all the time. My husband even said I sounded like a bear when I slept.  Feeling like this and not having any motivation to do anything I fell into depression and ate even more. After the trip to the doctor and being put on Antidepressants and Blood pressure meds, I knew I had to do something, I just did not know what to do or how to do it! So I did what I did know how to do and that was pray. I prayed and asked God to help me get out of the rut I was in. And He is a God that answers prayer, we often times don’t like or agree to His answer, but He does answer.  He sent my answer in the form of a fitness program being offered to my church through JSU Walter Payton Center. I accepted the answer sent and began to do everything they instructed me to do on my new journey.

 Tell us about the first time you started to workout? How bad was it?  

The very first time I worked out was a true picture of truly how out of shape I was, it was horrible.  I could not do one push up or sit up and walking was excruciating. It took me over 28 min to complete 1 mile and they were teaching us how to run in intervals, I thought I was going to pass out.  As bad and horrible as my body felt, I knew I had to keep going because enjoyed the feeling of actually completing the workout session.  I had a renewed sense of accomplishment and wanted to see if I could do better the next day and the next day and so on.

 Share with us about your first 5k and you recent first half marathon.

Before I share the 1st 5k, I want to share that after 4 months of training, 3 of them doing a C25K Program through JSU and 1 month of boot camp, I remember running my 1st 3 miles nonstop without walking.  That was April of 2012 and my goodness, I felt soooo amazing, like I had ran a marathon on that day!!! I celebrated within myself and shared with my trainer and a few boot camp participants that this was my first time ever in my life running that far without stopping or walking.  I was on cloud 9 and ready to keep on pushing.  I signed up for my 1st 5K which was to be the biggest loser in November 2012, but I actually ended up doing 2 before then, my first being a trail run in Crystal Springs, September 2012.  My, My, My, being a novice to running I had no idea what a trail run meant, but there I was all signed up, ready and excited to be running it, lol.  I had let one of my then church members and training buddies, talk me into doing this race and there we were, running through hills, valleys, across ditches, rocks, sand, tree limbs and bridges.  It was the most exciting feeling I had ever had when it comes to any kind of sport or physical activity. I knew on that day, I had found a new love.  I quickly signed up for the JSU Latasha Norman Walk/Run in October 2012 and I did the breast cancer walk the same morning following the 5K.  Then in November 2012 I participated in the Biggest Loser Walk/Run, and it was at this point I knew this was something I would be doing again and again.  The feeling was indescribable, just amazing.  As a matter of fact that was my first encounter with Rod Racer’s, although he had no knowledge of me, lol, all I could think of was I gotta keep up with the flag guy.  My husband kept trying to get pictures of me with the flag man, but that never happened during that race, lol.  But once I finished with that race I signed up for the half marathon.  This was the biggest challenge I had ever put before myself in my entire life.  All I kept thinking in my mind was 13.1 miles, but eventually during my training it became more about learning the new me I was becoming, more than focusing on the miles.  Yes everything was changing and I was being transformed into a new creation, not just loosing physical weight in pounds, but mental spiritual weights of fear, doubt and disbelief.  Loosing those weights, allowed faith to increase and I trained more intently to prepare for my 1st half.  And WOW, I mean WOW, talk about a indescribable feeling. Completing this half marathon was just an special indicator that I truly can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me.  For me it was like believing the scripture that says, all things are possible to him who believes and nothing shall be impossible to him. I believe now that I can complete a full marathon some day!

 

What advice you have for people who want to lose weight and live and healthy lifestyle? 

I would say to them “take one day at a time”. Many times we tend to look at the fact that we have 100 lbs to loose and don’t know how we could or would ever loose that much, but don’t look at that number.  Begin doing what you can do today to make small changes and each day or week add more changes in your lifestyle.  When I started walking I barely could finish 1 mile, but I never changed my time, just increased my pace by doing pushing myself to go a little further in the same time frame each day.  As for learning to run, if that’s something people would like to try, I say walk in your neighborhood and notice the light poles, then begin trotting between the poles, walk one pole the run to the next, so forth and so on, then run 2 poles, then 3 without stopping, before long you will run a whole block, then a mile, then 3 without stopping.  It’s really amazing.  As for eating, make small changes you can live with, first address portion control, then practice “less of” rather than “NO’s”.  Restrictions always make me want more of what I cannot have, so I practice, I cannot have this now or at this time, or I can’t have as much of this. I use MyFitnessPal to track everything I put into my mouth, so I know how many calories I eat each day, compared to how many I burn.  I always strive to burn more than I take in. This process does take time and it is not easy, but if a person just keeps moving forward they will get to their destination.  It takes some longer than others, but never compete with anyone but you.  Always try to do better than you did the day before and never cheat yourself when exercising or eating healthy. You cannot do it for someone else; you have to do it for you. One last thing, I would like to add and that is, take God as your partner, use the bible and all of it’s promises to help you overcome this mountain in your life. Prayer does work and prayer change things!!!! Make God your source and allow Him to be your guide and I assure you that He will give you peace in every area of your life and He will become a new source strength, rather than food, fear and self defeat.

 

Dr. Rick Guynes first hand accounts of the Boston Marathon bombing.

Guys,

  I want to share with you a facebook status update from a local cardiologist, Dr. Rick Guynes. He gives a brief first hand accounts of what he witness during the Boston Marathon.

 

 

It was a surreal weekend. I suppose the Lord had a purpose for me Monday at the Boston Marathon where i worked in the medical tent ( I did not run it this year. ) I was one of many volunteers, nothing special, just wanted to work and learn more about race medicine, and join the BAA staff for a day (the best marathon medical team in the world). I’ve not been much on Facebook historically, but wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude to all my friends and family for thoughts, prayers, and concern on FB tonight. I am truly blessed to have such a network of love and friendship. I cannot tell you the number of texts and emails and calls I’ve received. I am humbled. Thank you.

I am fine tonight physically, but have witnessed first hand the pain and sorrow of those who truly deserve your/our prayers and admiration. I am in awe of the courage of the average American–victims, families, bystanders and volunteers–all very special in my opinion, all courageous My eyes water thinking of it all again. We rise up to the occasion, dig deep, and press on, until the work is done and all are safe… No one fled from the medical tent after the second explosion. No one caved. No doubt , there were moments of worry for our own safety….But I saw men and women wipe they tears, put on a strong face, say a prayer, and forge on in the service of the injured and shaken. Granted, this ordeal was not of the magnitude of 9/11 (thankfully) But it was a big deal and I am proud of Boston, very proud of my country.

As with many trials in life, i feel the event has forever changed me, much more then I changed or affected it.

Regardless, I am very thankful–very blessed tonight–home with my family, tired but safe–and I thank you all.

In Christ, rick

Press Release -Sizzling Events Slated for June 22 in Leland and Tribbett

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

(Tribbett, MS) — After an overwhelming successful inaugural event, the 2nd Annual Hotter than Hades Half Marathon is slated for Saturday, June 22, 2013. In addition to the half marathon, a two-team relay for the course of the half marathon is being added to the event to increase participation with the more casual runners.

 

The Hotter than Hades Half Marathon is organized by St. John’s Episcopal Church and all proceeds go to support the special needs mission of Camp Bratton Green. 

 

“We had such a successful event last year and look forward to an even better event this year,” said race organizer Jamie Murrell, who serves as Senior Warden of St. John’s Episcopal Church. “We are excited about adding a two person relay to the event, and we are also going to start even earlier so we ensure that the stifling heat of June will not rear its head until the runners have crossed the finish line.”

 

The half marathon will be begin at Simmons Planting Company in Tralake, follow the length of  Tribbett Road , and conclude at the finish line at the Mitchell Distributing Budweiser Plant on U.S. 82 in Leland. Runners will need to be at Mitchell Distributing at 5:15 a.m. and buses will take the runners to the starting line at Simmons Planting in Tralake for the 6:15 a.m. starting gun by Bubba Simmons. The after-race celebration will be held at Mitchell Distributing, who are providing the refreshments and Squencher for the tired racers, as well as Lost Pizza in Indianola and Cleveland providing pizza. Other major sponsors of the race include Double Quick and Planters Bank.

 

Last year’s event drew over 150 runners from __ states and the combination of Delta hospitality, intriguing water stations, and a well-run total race experience is expected to draw even more interest this year. The race will be capped at 300 runners for the half marathon and 50 two-person relay teams.

 

“Running is increasingly popular in the region and we thought, correctly, that a fun half marathon in the Delta in June would peak the interest of our more dedicated athletes during the dog days of summer,” said Murrell. “Certainly, it is going to be hot, but we are going to begin the race early enough in the morning to miss the suffocating heat and there will be fun water stops at every mile on the 13.1 mile run. There are more and more races available to runners, and we go the extra mile to make sure that we take care of our participants and that they have a memorable experience.”

 

 There is a $45 registration fee for the half marathon and $35 per person fee for the relay. More information about the marathon, including details on how to register, can be found at www.tribbetthalfmarathon.com or by contacting Jamie Murrell at 662-347-2920. There will be a total of 13 water stations throughout the Tribbett countryside, and volunteers from around the region have already signed up to see which water station group has the most entertaining stop – with the winner receiving a $100 donation to the charity of their choice.

 

Murrell also said that there will be a special “Carb-Loading Dinner” the night before at St. John’s Episcopal Church from 6-8 p.m. open to both runners and community members. This $15 meal will feature plenty of tasty carbohydrate options for both the athletes and those that simply love a good meal they do not have to prepare. In addition to the menu, William McGee of Lazy Bone will entertain the diners with his special blend of Delta blues, rock, and folk.

 

“We want people to come to Leland, Tribbett, and the Delta and enjoy this special place with a fun and well-organized experience in the heat of the summer,” said Murrell. “This is a special place and we want this event to be a special day in the life of the region, and we encourage both runners and spectators to come out and be a part of it. By doing so, you will help young disabled girls and boys have even more special days at Camp Bratton Green. The boys and girls of Camp Bratton Green came to Leland to thank our church family last year after the race, and our parish left that day even more emboldened to support their efforts.”

 

For more information about Camp Bratton Green, please visit http://graycenter.dioms.org/camp/index.html

 

Spotlight Athlete In Mississippi: Bridgett Jolly – Tupelo, MS

Hey Fans! Thanks for taking time to visit our blog today. When I first started racing 4 years ago, Bridgett was one of the runners that I remembered. I seen how she progress over the years. I sure if you visit her home, she may have a room with nothing but medals and trophies. We hope that you are inspired after reading this interview. Enjoy! Rod.

Bridgett, thanks for taking time to chat with us. We always enjoyed watching you run over the past few years. So for those who don’t know you. Tell us about yourself?

I am a Christian. I am Jim Jolly’s wife. I am the mother to Ariel (16), Jewel (12), Jenna (11), Jim (8) and Jesse (6).  I am a runner. And in that order.

 

You once told me that you were a former smoker. After you quit, you start running. Tell other about the effect of smoke can do to your body. 

I have not smoked in 7 years. I did not realize how much control it had over me until I quit. I was so embarrassed that I was a smoker but Rod, I started in 7th grade. I was setting such a bad example for my children and when I finally decided to quit, I just quit. About 6 months later I started running. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made!

How proud of you to seeing the girls into running?

Oh my goodness…..I am so very proud! My heart was overwhelmed with joy the day I saw them cross the finish line for their first 10k. Running is such a disciplined sport and I’ve seen it carry over into their lives. They eat better and actually keep a running log. It is awesome!

Let talk about your first marathon. What was it like?

My first marathon was the country music marathon in Nashville. It was HILLY! Thank goodness I had already signed up for my second marathon the day before I ran it. Otherwise I don’t know how long it would have taken me to do another one. It was so hard and I had no idea what to expect. I ran the first half way too fast and just tanked on the second half. I have learned so much since then.

You remember that day you did three 5k’s one Saturday and drove the Florida after the 3rd 5k and did a half the next morning. What were you thinking? (smiling)

Ha! I do remember. First of all let me say that runners think a little different that other people. We will drive 6 hours from home just to run a half marathon. So I am not sure that doing that would ever make sense to many. But the truth is I could not decide which 5k to do so I did them all. And I really wanted to do the half too so that is what I did. It was fun!!!

How has the transition living in Tupelo being around new group of runners?

Moving to Tupelo has been awesome. The runners are amazing and so fast. They are encouraging and make me want to be a better runner. I have met some very good friends here. Tupelo knows how to put on a marathon too!!!

Boston Marathon. I know have many memories about that race.

I have had the opportunity to run Boston 3 times. I can not believe I abused my body for so many years by smoking and God still gave me the ability to qualify for Boston. It is the marathon above all marathons. It is amazing. I feel like a rock star each time I run it. I know that I’m running behind some of the fastest runners in the world. Just talking about it gets me excited.The first time I qualified was the best. Jim and the girls were able to see me just moments before I crossed the finish line and it was so emotional for me. Jim was so proud of me. He is my number one fan.

 What advice you have for new runners?

Don’t give up. It is hard. It takes dedication. It takes motivation. It takes determination. And when you can’t find any of that, just call a running friend. We all have bad days. It takes the bad runs to truly appreciate the good ones. The very first time I ran (or tried to) was about 6 months after I quit smoking. I literally made it about a tenth of a mile. I came back home and told Jim it was easier to smoke. But for some reason I kept going back out and trying again. At some point it all just clicked and I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I was and am and always will be a runner. And pace doesn’t matter. We all cross the same finish line.

Spotlight Athlete In Mississippi: Jackie Blue – Grenada, MS.

 

Hey Mississippi! Happy Thursday to you! We recently catch up with our good buddy from Grenada, Jackie Blue.  She shares with us about family, running and her recent Marathon experience. We hope you enjoy!

Jackie, Thanks for taking time out to chat with us! So tell us at Jackie Blue and the family.

Rod, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share my love of running.  God blessed me with the ability to run.  My family is my support group and inspiration.  Jerry and I have been married 33 years and have one son, Clark.  Jerry and Clark work at Wal-Mart.  Jerry as a Zone Manager and Clark is Department Manager of Sporting Goods.  I have been in banking for 30 years working in lending until 2012 when I changed to the position of Fraud Specialist.

Tell us about your first 5k race.

I bought my first pair of running shoes while I was attending Blue Mountain College.  My husband can be credited for getting me into running the local runs.  He and I ran, cycled, and hiked together until a couple of years ago when he had knee surgery.  My son runs or cycles with me on occasion.  This year my son and I  plan to do more running together.  My sister, Scottie race walks.  She and I go to the runs/walks together, many of them sponsored by the MS Track Club.  I took a year or so to race walk with her, but came back to running.  Running has been a source of sanity for me when the world gets to be too much.  My family knows not to let me go for more than two days without running.  Running is such a part of me.

 My first 5K run was in Houston, MS.  I was the last person to cross the finish line.  However, I received a trophy because I was the only female in my age group.  As you may have heard, sometimes it pays just to show up.  Believe it or not, that run had me hooked.

 My dad was an United Methodist minister and my mom was our rock.  When my dad died in 1987 of pancreatic cancer, I made a commitment to myself to continue to run to keep healthy and to run for people that could not run.  Twenty years later my mom died.  She had type II diabetes.  My parents were always supportive of me.  I missed them very much

 I know you love to run. What are your favorite races?

My favorite run, well, I like them all.  Of course, all my “firsts” are favorites for accomplishing a new distance.  One of the most relaxed and fun is the Fit2Lead Costumed 5K at the Y in Flowood, MS.  It is in October close to Halloween.  All participants run/walk in their costume.  It’s a good time and interesting to see the more creative costumes.  My other favorites are Tupelo’s Gum Tree 10K, Grenada’s Thunder of Water 5 Miler, Greenwood’s Viking Half Marathon, Jackson’s MS Blues Marathon and Half Marathon, and new to my list is Greenville’s MS River Marathon and Half Marathon.

You recently ran the Inaugural Mississippi River Marathon back on Feb 9th. Share that experience of running your first full marathon.

Four days after my 54^th birthday this year, I added my latest accomplishment.  I ran my first full marathon, The MS River Marathon in Greenville.  My friend and running partner, David Harrell and I trained for months.  The morning of the marathon, David was sick with a cold and could not risk making it worse by running 26.2 miles.  I felt bad he could not run that day and so did he.  We had told everybody we knew we were running so it was up to me to complete the marathon for both of us.  My family, David and his wife, Ashley watched me get on the bus that would take me with the other runners to the starting point in Arkansas.  I had been praying and had gone by my church before I left Grenada for my minister, Bro. Tom Potter, to pray with me for strength to finish the marathon.

During the bus ride, I met other runners from all over the United States.  Their stories were so interesting.  The girl sitting across the aisle from me was from Virginia Beach, VA and a member of the Marathon Maniacs.  She had flown in a 30 passenger plane from Atlanta, GA to run this her 39^th marathon.  I was in awe.

When we arrived at the starting line, I heard somebody call my name.  It was my friend, John Collier and his wife, Candace, from Jackson.  They are a wonderful Christian couple.  I was so excited to see them.  I knew this was John’s first and he would be running close to my pace. Candace would be capturing the marathon in pictures and video.   They introduced me to their friends and I finally started to relax.

 

At the starting line, I prayed again and we were running.  The beginning of the marathon was scenic and having John to talk to helped build my confidence.  When we arrived on the MS River bridge for the half way point, I got emotional.  I had dreamed of running across that beautiful bridge and my dream was coming true.  I was proud to be in the moment. 

 

The route was full of cheering people.  They seemed happy we were there and I was certainly proud to be there.  Shortly after crossing the bridge, I felt God’s warm hands on the sides of my arms, holding me yet giving me a little push.  It was as if I were floating.  My pace got a little faster.  I was thinking about my family and friends and how they had all told me, “you can do this”.  I kept running.

 

At mile 24, I was getting tired, but I knew I only had 2.2 miles to go.  I kept running.  When I crossed the railroad tracks, I could see the finish line.  People were lined up on both sides of the street clapping and cheering.  I felt great.

 

The announcer called my name as I crossed the finish line.  A big grin was on my face.  I had completed my first full marathon, 26.2 miles.  I was thrilled.  God was with me, as always.  My family was taking pictures and hugging me.  My friend, Angela Cooper, had run the half marathon earlier and stayed to watch me cross the finish line.  It meant everything to me to have all of them there watching me met my goal.

 

My friend John finished his first marathon that day too.  Since then, my friend Angela completed her first marathon, the Rock ‘n Roll Marathon in New Orleans.  My running partner, David, finished his first marathon, the Gusher Marathon in Beaumont, TX a month after mine.  He came in 3^rd in his age group.  By the way, David and I finished our marathons with the exact same time.

What is your advice to new runners? 

I think one of the best parts of running is the friends you make.  Many of my friends are people I have met at a run. Friends and generous people like Rod and April that give back to their community.  The only thing you may have in common is that you run, but that is enough.  When you see each other, you give an encouraging word at the starting line and a hug at the finish line.  Life is good because you ran that day.  My advice to new runners, KEEP RUNNING!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spotlight Athlete in MS: Lisa McCombs – Gulfport, MS

Happy Sunday! We decided to catch up with one of the hardest working woman on the Gulf Coast. Our interview takes us to Gulfport, Ms to visit with our friend, Lisa McCombs. Enjoy!

 Lisa, thanks for joining us today! First off, thank you for the hard work you do for the Gulf Coast Running community and thank you for your service to our country!  So tell us about Lisa McComb.

 

Hi! I’m so honored to be a part of this interview!! I’m from a small farm town in Ohio. Graduated from college and joined the Army. Met my husband, Phil, currently in the Army. Got our dog, Jake, currently snuggled next to me. I wear a lot of hats…I’m heavily involved in the community, running clubs, cycling, triathlon, veterans, military, humane society and so forth… I’m the Marketing Director and Events Coordinator for a local running and triathlon shop. I love my job; I love my bosses and coworkers. I am big time into triathlons. I recently finished my 2nd Ironman in Cabo (first in Texas in May 2012). I’m a running coach; have trained about 300 couch potatoes into runners. I love to cook, eat, take pictures, travel, and inspire others to be amazing.

 

Share your experience serving in the US Army.

 

I served as an Engineer Officer for about 7 years in the Army. I deployed to Iraq in support of OIF and Afghanistan in support of OEF. I loved leading my troops and serving our country. I learned so much about myself and becoming a better person. I also learned the true essence of discipline, integrity, and self-less service.

 

Run-N-Tri is busy a both locations in Gulfport and Moblie. What you enjoy most about work with the team.

 

Oh man, what don’t I love about RNT!? I get to do what I love; what I’m most passionate about!! I love training new runners; I especially love when they cross the finish line. I feel just as accomplished as they do. Like a proud momma!! Ha ha!! The guys are great, more like big brothers than bosses; and I work with a great team of athletes. I really love that we’re all so passionate about helping people. It isn’t about making a sale at RNT, it’s about building a community of healthy strong athletes.

 

I know you’re fresh off a Ironman race. What’s it like?

 

Hard. I mean, an Ironman isn’t supposed to be EASY, but this was a very tough course. I always tell my students that the training is the hard part and the race is the reward, it’s the easy part. In this case, my training seemed really easy and the race was the hard part! The water was a lot more than I expected being in the open Sea/Ocean like it was. The bike course was very hilly, errr…mountainous. The run was great though, I felt strong… 

But the finish line was definitely the reward. I felt very accomplished. Like I made it through something that so many did not. In fact, 1,399 went into the water that morning and only 890 crossed the finish line. I had a lot of support from friends and family. It just warms my heart that so many people were cheering me on. Not letting them down was very important to me and it truly pushed me to not give up. I feel like a stronger person, emotionally and physically after that race. My dream is still to get to Kona. I know it’s in me!

 

 What advice you have for a new runner or someone preparing for the first triathlon? 

 

1) Be You, Be Amazing. And by that, I mean so much. For starters, don’t try to race someone else’s race. Train for you. Eat for you. You know (or you’ll figure out…) what YOU need to do for YOU to reach your goals. Don’t worry about the person in front of you, beside you, or behind you. And always be amazing at being you! Be genuine, be kind, be respectful. Be proud of yourself and who you are. 2) Keep it moving. As long as you’re moving forward, you’re making progress. Run, jog, walk, crawl…keep it moving.