As Promised working my way to update the blog with races ...but first I want to Show Case one of my Runner "Kids" Starr Gantz...
*****But first here's some important info on my ShowCase Runner*****
Starr retired after 42 years, having worked in Adolescent Medicine in Pediatrics and Young Parents Program in OB Clinic as a Registered Dietitian at UK. One door closed, and another one opened, she decided to become a Team leader for the March of Dimes/ March for Babies, and strongly believes in their programs to prevent preterm deliveries and that they are making a difference. March of Dimes provided research funding not only for the polio vaccine, but many more for babies.
This year her Step Challenge raised $1200! Friends and family donated to the March for Babies and then attempted to outstep her for a week. There were only 3 that did, Marcus, Tommy, and Mindy. Fifty eight people participated, and everyone received a prize.Last year she raised $1800. I agree with Starr, babies are our future and deserve a fighting chance.
Meeting Starr was by chance after a race that the Kid was doing in Lexington...this is where we have met Many of my Runner Kids....About 6 years ago, Starr decided that after walking 10,000 steps per day for years she decided she could get her exercise done faster by running. It was a disaster. Which led to her having to use an inhaler after only running past 3 houses along her street. Starr like all runners I've met didn't give up, and kept adding more distance to her attempts. She eventually found a trainer, Larry Jackson at Synergy Inc. Through her training she was able to build her strength and endurance. Her mileage now can average from 10-30 miles per week depending on what she is training for. Quoted from Starr "Running is something you do for yourself, not for anyone else". "And yes, I do run for the bling!" and Oh the Bling they all have acquired....
She enjoys running by myself or with friends. Along with the friendships (shout out to the Flamingos {there are Four Original Flamingos} and Weekend Runaways) made through Running, traveling, and so many fun experiences is really what Running is all about. I've witnessed not just her but most of the runners like running all the various distances, and though she 'says' come June this is really going to be her last marathon referring to the first in Kentucky Women's only Filly Half-Marathon.
She joined Bluegrass Runners because of wanting to be part of putting on the Thoroughbred Classic on Thanksgiving, as it was great way to give back to the community.
Those of us that Know and Love Starr also know her love of Chocolate!! Last year the kids competed in 3 Hot Chocolate races. It was fitting then for her to become a HotChocolate Ambassador....a Perfect Fit indeed. As Ambassador she shares her 'code' for those that want to also enjoy in the fun and of course CHOCOLATE! So those who want to do a destination race to Nashville use code NASHSTARR19 for extra swag in your bag.
Starr turned 65 this year and OMG is More out of Control than ever before...it's the hormone patch
so it was fitting to have a Race Birthday party Flamingo Style...
She IS one of the original Flamingo's More on that later.
During this years Quarter Horse Relay at White Hall in Richmond the Kid and her buddies put on a Lavish "tent" flamingo style surprise Birthday party before, during, after the race.....talk about pink galore, I'm not as fond of the color but have learned to go with it as I too am part of the original Flamingo's. There were flamingo blow ups, cut-outs, banner, water bottles, thermos containers, lawn deco,
as well as a Flamingos cupcake Cake from Sweets by Cindy (she did amazing as always)..
The Race itself was The Most Miserable I've been too EVER!! Rain, Sleet, Snow, Snow with Sleet, Cold, Wind you name it [only in Kentucky]....the Worst! But it was Birthday Girl weekend and the kids pulled through to make it a day Starr would remember...
Starr & Bobbie aka the 'Kid'
Maggie Tibbles & the Kid
the Kid & Lori MacGregor
Starr & Lori
The next day, March 25th, after going through Cold, Rain, Sleet & Snow...she did her 'official Kick-off' Birthday Walk of .65 miles in her neighborhood which by the Grace of God is was Sunny and only slightly cool {again crazy Ky weather} the Kid and I went to help celebrate and get some steps in...she mapped out a course through her neighborhood, had a water stop, and also had a Beer, Wine, snack stop before finishing at her home where you won prizes for completing the walk A~N~D more food!
So Here's to you my Starr, and one of my Star performers...I will see you at many more races to come as well as share many more hotel rooms during the Weekend RunCations!
Hugs, Kisses, Run Safe Wishes!
a Runners Mom & More
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