The running of the 2010 Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) went off like clockwork today, "in spite of credible threats to the runners," said one Marine who was there.
MGySgt White and his team finished strong in "The Peoples' Marathon" despite a last minute course change that had the runners jumping curbs while trying to maintain their pace for 26.2 miles.
This year, in a race dedicated to the wounded warriors being helped by the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, over 30,000 runners started out with one goal in common....to finish. Temperatures were quite chilly at the start, warming up into the 60's by the time MGySgt White finished. He said trying to dress for the temperature change was a bit of a challenge, with his team being overly warm by the end of the race.
The MGySgt said it was a good race. "Excellent. Feel great." he said shortly after getting back to his vehicle to head home. With two hills, the heat later in the race and an unexpected challenge of jumping curbs the MGySgt posted a time of 04:40:54.
While this isn't the fastest time he has ever run a marathon, he was happy. Each year, I have asked him what is your goal for a time to finish under? Consistently he responds with, "I will be happy to just finish the marathon." While I am sure he has a time in mind, he doesn't run for that reason.
He runs because at one point in his life, he was facing a lifetime of possible paralysis. He runs to raise awareness and funds for his wounded comrades through the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
MGySgt White has been inspiring Marines for over 20 years.
Congratulations Marine, against all odds, you've now finished the Marine Corps Marathon for the 3rd consecutive year! What's next?
Stumble It!
