Salem, Oregon's
Running & Walking Club Site
Home of
Willamette Valley Road Runners (WVRR)
www.WVRoadrunners.org.

Dear Willamette Valley Striders,

It is with a feeling of humbleness that I thank you for the award you presented to me on January 19. I was obviously very surprised and pleased with the recognition by such an accomplished group of people. Susan’s presentation speech talked about not forgetting what it is like to be a beginning runner and about being persistent and, I think, consistent. This is probably true as I do try to run on a regular basis because that is how I seem to reap the most benefits and I always feel like I’m just beginning because there is so much to learn about the sport. What I do however, pales beside the accomplishments of those of you who run sub 6 minute miles or think nothing of running 4--6 marathons a year.

In pondering why I was recognized I have decided maybe it is because I represent those recreational runners who know we will never be really competitive. However, our enjoyment comes from being part of the run or race or, as I have jokingly said, filling our role of being there for the FAST people to pass. Seriously, it has been a great experience to use this sport to not only maintain a level of fitness but to also meet and enjoy the company of many very nice people. If I have encouraged other people to try the sport it is only because of the many people that have provided the encouragement and support I needed. Running clubs like the Striders and Pheidippides are also invaluable for the mentoring they give to beginning runners/walkers and even those of us who have been at it a while. The clinics and encouragement provided by Gallagher Fitness Resources and especially Susan, John and Bob have also been a major reason for my continuing when I wasn’t sure I was meant for this sport. Also, there were times I wouldn’t shown up to run had it not been for some close friends who expected me to be there. But then, these are some of the things that make running or walking so special to many others and me.

Thank you again so much for the recognition and for a really wonderful surprise.

Lois Loop