The returning runner…

Act 50 – The unsung support crew heroes…

After spotting the lead runner a quarter of a mile, I had gradually reeled him in over the uphill second half of the “Take it to the Lake” ½ Marathon. I didn’t know the competition, but the 8,000+ altitude seemed to be working in my favor on the toughest uphill portions. Now, at the 9.5 mile point, we were locked in a head-to-head dual – each imagining that were in some epic event like the Olympics or Boston.

But the dual wasn’t ours alone. Each had their support crew weaving through the now increasing traffic complicated by the droves of 10k runners that we were now passing on their shorter out and back route. Timing and technique was orchestrated with the intensity of an Indy 500 pit crew. Jockeying back and forth we each took our own favorite electrolyte at pre-determined mile points along the course. Delivery was provided in sync with our pace to ensure no lost time. At mile 11 my wife dutifully handed me my last drink while completely unaware that I was matching pace for first (due to the interwoven 10kers). Our Australian Shepard “Vader” was also caught up in the excitement and sprang from the car window to join in the race! My wife, in a panic due to vehicular traffic and mismatch of weaving runners, scrambled to corral our wayward fan and managed to get him back in the car.

At 12.5 miles I envisioned a surge up the last, steepest, hill on the course to the finish line. There was no surge. It was all I could muster to keep running. The hill hadn’t been that steep on the downhill heading out at the beginning of the race. Somehow, much steeper now. But, the altitude was taking its toll on my flatland competition. He faded and I managed a first! Oh, wait. I alone didn’t manage it -could never have done it without my support crew of one (spouse Shawnie Gookin)!

Having a dedicated support crew (spouse, child, parent, teammate, friend) can be absolutely critical on longer races. Some of the benefits can include:

·       Taking pictures of you for your dumb blog or FB posting.

·       Driving to and from the race or training.

·       Handling travel arrangements.

·       Arranging meals which fit your demanding requirements.

·       Somehow carrying just about any first-aide item that you might need.

·       Providing liquids (or even some food on ultras) during the event.

·       Coordinating “your” race or training with other important family events and, in some cases, even working in kids/grandkid activities around the race.

·       Providing encouragement (Go faster! Or, you suck today!). Ok, usually much more encouraging than that...

But, keep in mind that support crews put up with a lot! Some of the challenges that they endure:

·       Boredom. Road races are bad enough but consider track meets. Usually, the timing of races are on a “rolling start” program tying down your crew for seemingly endless hours…

·       Construction/accidents on the drive to and during the race.

·       Unexpected road blockages make the identified drink delivery route impossible.

·       Angry cops.

·       Your requested aide spots prove to be impossible considering pace and delays/blockages identified above.

·       Impatient kids, pets, relatives.

·       Something goes wrong with you – could just be much slower progress than planned or could be something that takes you out of the race (or worse).

·       Holding your hand in the ER (hey, it can happen).

Think about it! Do something extra special for your support crew! They probably deserve much more than you can offer but give a shot!!

Photo: Me with wife Shawnie Gookin, my support crew of one!