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

 

2004
Willamette Valley Road Runner
Awards

Charles J. Bowles: Brent Mobley

Pheidippides Cup: Jim Wenckus

Member of the Year: Rick Segal

Member of the Year: Judy Martin

(2 members honored this year)

Male Runner Of The Year (under 40) Raille Wilson

Female Runner Of The Year (under 40) Nicole Jones

Male Master Runner Of The Year David Warren

Female Master Runner Of The Year Susan Brainard

Male Most Improved Runner Raille Wilson

Female Most Improved Runner Gretchen Merrill

 

"I was pleasantly surprised that I received the Pheidippides Cup. I have been a runner since 1978 (by my definition of a "runner") but really haven't done many "pure" road-racing events for a number of years. In fact, other than a few marathons, Hood-to-Coast, and some isolated 5ks, I haven't really done any road racing. Do I still qualify as a runner? True, I do run about 25-30 miles per week as part of my triathlon training, but by serious runner standards, that's not much. . However, in spite of all the cross-training I do, I still feel that running is the "core" to my fitness. If I’m running well, then I consider myself "fit." And, when a triathlete asks, I say that I come from a running background. So, I guess I am a runner.

I would like to thank all of my friends, and others in the Willamette Valley Road Runners who saw fit to bestow the honors on me. The advice I’d like to pass on is to train consistently, cross-train when you can, eat 4-5 fruits and vegetables every day, and most of all: have fun!!! You know you've crossed over when the workouts are more fun and important than the organized events!!!!"

› Jim Wenckus

"It was such an honor to win not just one, but two awards. Being a member of the WVRR for just over a year and attending my first awards banquet, I had no idea what it would be like. To say I was surprised would be an understatement.

Thanks to everyone who has run with me, given me advice, and just been there every weekend to talk to and visit with. The love of running and seeing all my running friends every weekend is what keeps me motivated on those cold, dark mornings. I look forward to seeing you all as the spring season approaches."

› Raille Wilson

"Hello, fellow runners, and thank you so very much for the honor of being the 2004 WVRR most improved female runner. I am sorry we were not able to be at the dinner, but we were in Lincoln City, cheering on our middle son in his basketball tournament.

The comments and congratulations I have received while doing training runs with my Gallagher/Galloway group, by e-mail, even at a basketball game have meant a great deal. They are also very motivating. As is that nifty trophy.

Bill showed me the letter of recommendation he wrote, and it was pretty funny.Yes, it was accurate as well. Yes, he really did say that to me. (Ed. note: Bill responded to Gigi’s news that she had joined a Hood to Coast team with skepticism about her readiness.) No, it will never be forgotten. Needless to say, though, I took it as a challenge instead of a reason to quit. We are both glad I did, and he even slows down to run with me sometimes.

So thank you again. My journey as a runner has been filled with fun, exhaustion, new friendships, trashed looking feet and even a few moments of euphoria. I look forward to many more miles."

› Gretchen "Gigi" Merrill

"I am very appreciative of receiving the Females Masters Runner of the Year. Turning 40 years old has opened up a new chapter with my running endeavors. The highlight of last year's running was being able to finally participate in the Senior Olympics Track and Field Event, an event where you have to be at least 40 years old. I recommend this event as the participants are very enthusiastic and it is a low-key event. I hadn't participated in a track and field event since high school, so I had a lot of excitement and anticipation for the event.

I have lived in Salem for the past 12 years and have enjoyed being part of the running club and participating in the local races. The camaraderie of this running club is super! I want to also say thanks to Gallagher Fitness Resources for being a fantastic resource in our running community. The support they provide is invaluable."

› Susan Brainard

"I was greatly surprised to receive the WVRR- member of the year award and I wanted to especially thank all those who nominated me. You are all probably having second thoughts after my "formal running attire" at the awards banquet. Thank you all again!"

› Rick Segal

 

"I knew that something was up when Kathy Sansone urged me to attend the banquet, even though I couldn’t get there until after dinner. I suspected that perhaps I would receive a certificate for volunteering as editor of this newsletter….

What a surprise to be honored as a Member of the Year!

Thank you for the classy trophy and kind words. It always feels good to have one’s efforts acknowledged!

I appreciate the contributions so many of you make to the newsletter. Please continue sending your news, articles and information. The newsletter is finest when many WVRR voices are heard!"

› Judy Martin

"Dear Willamette Valley Roadrunners,

I want to thank the club for awarding me the under 40 female runner of the year.

Ron Hartwig did a great job explaining what I like about running, and that I get my friends at Schirle School to run with me. It's fun when they run with me. Lots better than with my dad.

I also like running harder when I'm with my track club, especially with my friend Ashley Burger. I also understand that the award is for working hard and running fast in races and improving. I love my trophy. It's cool. Thank You.

My dad helped me with this."

› Nicole Jones, age 9

"I was overwhelmed by this honor. It came to me as a complete surprise. I've gained so much from this community of runner. You all have become an extended family to me. I am looking forward to spending more miles with each and everyone of you and if a have not run with you yet I am looking forward to that opportunity As for receiving an award such as this I think it will be easier to give one next year. Keep on running."

› David Warren