Presidential Message...

Fall is flying by. I don't know about you, but I hate the darkness. I think I am going to buy a headlamp for those five thirty runs. Last week when Candi Schermerhorn and I were running on Ridge Road a dog was hit by a car not ten feet from us. The driver never even saw the dog. No braking was done. It made us both think how careful we need to be on the roads, especially in the dark. Putting reflective running gear on our Christmas lists might not be a bad idea.

Thanks to all those who helped clean up on Glenwood Avenue on October 5. The sizable crowd made the work easier. It seems we fill fewer bags each year, so the concept must be working.

This past week was a very busy one for me, including a funeral and a marathon. (Where is this going you wonder?) Well, at the funeral the pastor spoke about the woman who had passed away. Though he didn't personally know her, he knew her accomplished family. He knew that although she was a quiet, unassuming person, that she had a great deal of influence on the success of her children. He said she had "carried them on her shoulders" many times. He encouraged the congregation to remember that our successes are often due to the influences of people who "carry us" so to speak.

When I arrived at the start of the Mohawk Hudson Marathon the next day Janet and Dan Olden, Candi Schermerhorn and Beth Joyce were there to greet me. Dan had the split times I needed already written down. Beth was there to drive my car to the finish and Candi and Janet were there to pace me from the half where the race really starts. I don't know if qualifying for Boston was my goal or their goal for me since they had all already been there. At the half, Janet entertained me with stories and carried extra water and gummy bears. At mile 20 Candi had the tough part, encouraging, split timing and pushing. Candi was hoping I would beat four hours. I got a 4:00:58. I won my age group! I was never so happy to finish a race. I reached my goal and their goal for me. I could never have done it without "standing on their shoulders." Dan Olden has been in every marathon I have ever done, showing me the ropes so to speak. He and Janet have been my greatest supporters as have many of the club members.

November is the month of Thanksgiving. Don't forget to thank the people whose shoulders you stand on.

Boston here I come!

Jill Pederson