Ellen and I had a terrific, whirlwind trip to Chicago!  On Saturday, all aspects of our timing, including finishing the marathon by 11am, worked out beautifully.  We were 2 lucky ladies because timing was so tight and any one of a hundred things could have delayed us and created a dismal mess!

After experiencing a small glimpse of the annual RRCA convention, we both came away feeling it would be a great idea for any or all of the RR Board to attend.  We brought back a program of events for you to check out.  There were many seminars, activities and lectures that address everything we do as a club.  As Ellen said, and I paraphrase, "It's worth something to be in a room with a bunch of knowledgeable people who have the same needs and who love running."  Next year, the annual convention is in Cincinnati, and happens to overlap with the Flying Pig Marathon.  Could be fun!

The banquet was nice.  We managed to clean ourselves up nicely and even walk in heels all evening.  I was most impressed with guest of honor, Helen Klein, the 84 yr. old mega-ultra runner and multi world record holder, who eloquently spoke about her philosophy and experiences with running--which she took up for the first time at age 55. Ellen and I have a nice picture of us taken with her and her husband, Norm. I have a copy of the official program of the RRCA convention, which lists her UNBELIEVABLE accomplishments in running.

I gave a 2-minute speech upon accepting my award. Ellen heard it about 15 times in advance, and she claims the on-stage delivery was fine.  I thanked our volunteers, gave a little information about the history of YIM, what our goals are with the program, and how the need is great in not only ours but many communities.  It was a relevant topic this year.  Aspects of youth running was touched upon throughout the convention.   

Sunday was a relaxing, gorgeously sunny day in Chicago.  We watched the 40,000 crazy insane runners pass by as they completed mile 1 of the Shamrock Shuffle 8K.   We walked off a hefty brunch and enjoyed magnificent architecture all along the Magnificent Mile.  We saw and caught up with a close friend of mine from high school. Leisurely, we headed to the airport in the mid-afternoon.  Somehow I returned with more blisters than when I left...never walk around a city on a hot day with leather shoes and no socks!!    

Terrific weekend.  It could only have been better if UNC-Tarheels had won the basketball game.  

See you this Sunday!

Mary