---When I was in high school long distance running was not exactly the coolest thing. I am 55 now and I love how the world of running has been embraced by the younger generation. To be straight up I'm proud of them all.

---When I first arrived at the Mickey Ward Run in Lowell I talked to Patrick(2644) and his mom, Kathy. She told me of the great running Patrick was doing and she was right. I got a picture of us with Patrick's friend Chad and the a picture of the entire cross country team, including coach Bob.

---As you can see in the middle picture, Patrick did great and receive one of the medals. Chad also received a medal for his performance. And I can proudly say that they both beat me, the world record holder, by 6 plus minutes. "Great job guys. I'm proud of you".

---Tim(2838) and I met each other while running the race. He was looking for his daughter Lindsey(in red). He however was looking in the wrong place. He was looking amongst the crowd of people we were running with. Lindsey, however, was WAAAAAY ahead of us. And she finished WAAAAAY ahead of us, too. Her and her sister Molly are 2 wonderful young ladies and Tim is a proud dad.

---All the sunshine and the people, like these folks, made the 2 hour journey more that worth while. Come and see these young runners next year and you will see someone to be proud of.