Lonnie's Service

Greetings,

On Friday, I attended the service to celebrate the life of Lonnie James Harris at the Rose Hills Memorial Park near Whittier.  I got there a bit early before the 11am service started, and as I drove up to the top of the hill, it was a beautiful warm clear sunny day. The "Chapel" was actually a very large majestic cathedral-like structure, lots of glass to let the sunny day in.

Rose Hill Chapel

I walked to the front, just as they were letting people in, and went up to pay my last respects to this great man.  The top half of the casket was open to allow you to view Lonnie, the second closed half was draped with an American flag. He looked calm and peaceful in a suit, but what I didn't expect to see was the current LA Marathon medal around his neck.  He got the medal for the marathon that he had trained so hard for, but was not able to participate in.  It would have been his 29th as a Legacy runner.  Next to the casket was a picture of Lonnie, and the actual  framed display of all his previous Marathon medals.

At least 200 people were there for the service, which lasted for an hour, and a very large group of his close family and relatives were there.  Both a Pastor and a Reverend, read from the Bible, and gave words of encouragement, giving a very Christian view of what life and death means to them. Several family members recounted their memories and attributes about Lonnie.  Representatives of his Vipassena meditation group and the Legacy runners also spoke.

I've been to many services, maybe too many, and it's the ones for people that you feel have left too early are the tough ones. The good die young.

What's always interesting is to realize that the person you felt you knew, this very friendly and approachable person, has many facets which you didn't know about.  I only knew Lonnie through the Roadrunners, and he's been to my home a few times for the BBQ, so it was great to hear more about him. 

One of his nephews talked about how growing up in Compton, not too many kids had an uncle that would take them up in a small plane and fly around.  Lonnie had a pilots license, he had served in the Air Force. A first cousin told us how Lonnie gave her some tough love advice and told her to do her jail time because of her drug addiction. Lonnie helped out at AA. One of the leaders of the Meditation center told about the generosity of Lonnie driving out to 29 Palms every weekend and his commitment to his studies. Lonnie was a devoted student of an India based meditation group. To his family, he was known as "LJ".

I sat with Jose and Dennis, both former members of RW5, and there must of been close to a dozen Legacy runners there, and I thanked Nick Curl, the Marathon race director for getting the medal to the Harris family, a very classy act. 

These events are always tough and bittersweet. It was great to see a side of Lonnie that I had no idea about, and it was great to see all the diverse groups of people that came to celebrate their friendship with him, and I'm sure we all felt that we knew him just a bit better or closer, and then to find out everyone in that room shared this same sentiment. It's a testament to how giving a person Lonnie is that he could bring so many people together and have had such an intimate understanding. It's something worth striving for, something we all can grow to emulate...but the lesson is that we all have to go some day, we can't really control the time we have. It was sad and it was beautiful.

I've transcribed the Obituary as it appeared in the program that was handed out to the people at the service. This is followed by an article written about Lonnie, published 4 years ago in The Daily Breeze, a publication out of Torrance.

Walt

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Obituary

Lonnie James Harris "L.J." was born on February 15, 1947 to Joe and Corrine Harris in Los Angeles, CA. Lonnie received his general education from Compton School District. He received his Masters in Behavior Science from California State University, Dominguez Hills in Carson, CA. Lonnie served in United States Air Force and received an Honorable Discharge.

He later met and married the love of his life Connie Lofton. They were married for 38 years. Lonnie was involved in numerous organizations. He was a member of Vipassena Meditation Group. He was also a legacy runner. He was preparing to run his twenty-ninth (29) Marathon at the time of his death.

Lonnie always stated that upon his death he would love to die doing the things he loved to do.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his mother and father, his son Darwin; two brothers, Jessie (Lee Lee), Oliver (Hank); two sisters June and Barbara.

He leaves to cherish precious memories his loving wife Connie; sisters Martha Pittman (Clarence), Jalona Battle (James), Nudie Rose, Maddie Harris; stepchildren, Larry (Sunny), Judy; grandchildren Laurren, Tiffany, Patrice and Patricia; two great grandchildren Noah and Christrian, all of California, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The lives of those he touched will be richer as a result of knowing him. Lonnie received Jesus Christ as his Personal Savior.

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By Jennifer Hagihara Staff Writer

Posted: 03/18/10, 9:00 PM PDT |

On Sunday, runner Lonnie J. Harris is hoping to continue a tradition he started 25 years ago.

The Carson resident has participated in the Los Angeles Marathon since it started in 1986.

He's raced in other marathons - including four in Long Beach and two on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. But Harris said the Los Angeles race is is favorite.

"L.A. is based on a people's marathon," the 63-year-old said. "There's around a million spectators. It seems as if all of L.A. is running."

Harris belongs to a group of legacy runners organized by Manhattan Beach resident Denny Smith and his friend Lou Briones, who, 15 years ago, decided to form a club for people who have been participating since the beginning.

"Our membership closed 25 years ago," Smith said. "Nobody can join our group now."

The organization makes T-shirts and holds a big lunch a week after the race to show the medals members get for completing and to share any interesting or funny stories.

"(We're) a great reflection of what L.A. is," Smith said. "We had 233 legacy runners last year and everyone is culturally and economically diverse. We have married couples, wheelchair racers, blue-collar workers and rich people."

The main goal for legacy runners is to participate in and finish each L.A. marathon, whether or not their race times are good.

For Harris, training is a yearlong process that involves both mental and physical exercises.

Harris belongs to the L.A. Marathon's official training group called the Roadrunners. Members of the group meet every Saturday from August until March and add a few miles to their schedule every week.

By the end of 38 weeks, the members runs as much as 20 miles a Saturday. In addition to running, Harris also engages in deep meditation to help him focus on the event.

But when the participants begin running and the soreness sets in, the crowd becomes the runners' biggest motivator.

"A lot of wonderful groups come out and support us," Harris said. "There's a lot of people who sing, which helps take your mind off what you're doing. It's a spiritual lift."

Frank McCourt, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the L.A. Marathon, decided to change the course for the first time in 25 years. The 26.2-mile race will start at Dodger Stadium and continue through West Hollywood and Beverly Hills until ending at Santa Monica.

Racers will park in Santa Monica and be shuttled to the stadium from 3 to 6 a.m.

As a marathoner, Harris doesn't know when he's going to stop running.

"People are living to be over 100," Harris said. "I think I'll be running for quite some time."

jennifer.hagihara@dailybreeze.com

Lonnie Harris - A Great Loss

 
Lonnie Harris from 2012 LA Marathon

With a heavy heart, I found out Friday that Lonnie Harris had passed away Thursday night. I wanted to wait till after our little BBQ to mention this, since I wanted us to celebrate everyone's victory first.  For those who have been to our past BBQs, Lonnie usually was there to join in the celebration. 

Lonnie wasn't officially with any Roadrunners group, he would float around, and he was always welcomed.  It was an honor to have him join us this season a few times, and he ran with us during our 20 miler just four weeks ago. He did not run this years Marathon, and I remembered looking for him at the start.  He passed away due to complications of a heart condition. He was 67 years young. I included the explanation from an email I got forwarded from Alan Culver.
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Dear Legacies,

One of our nicest Legacy family members, Lonnie Harris was not able to start the race last Sunday.  Last Wednesday he was taken to the Long Beach VA Hospital in severe pain. 

We have learned that he had a pericardial effusion and was on heavy medication to ease the pain.  I looked up pericardial effusion (maybe Legacy Dr. John can expound on this), which is a condition where fluid builds up in the pericardium, which is the two layered sack that surrounds the heart.  Usually there is a little fluid in that space between the layers but in Lonnie's case, there was a lot more that put pressure on his heart.  Who knows? Maybe it would have been worse if he had started the race.  He has drainage tubes now and the pain has eased.  Now they need to find out what caused it.  That's all I know right now.

Long may you run,
Lou Briones

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On Thursday night at 6pm, Lonnie had passed away.

Lonnie is a Legacy Runner, which means he had participated in every LA Marathon since the very first one in 1975.  It's a very small club. When we were running the 20 miler on Feb. 15, he was telling me of how he was taking classes in meditation, and how great that was, and how I think he was considering getting certified so that he can conduct meditation sessions also.

He had this very approachable radiance that made it very easy to talk to, and it was always great to have him around.  I think anyone who ever met him, or spoke to him, could immediately then call him your friend.  He was very giving in that way.

Last year, during the 2013 Marathon, he joined in with us for the full run, and it was great having him with us. He liked our pace, and I remember...it had gotten hot right in Hollywood like this year, but the difference was that once we got pass mile 13, it got cooler and cooler the further west we went.  By the time we got to Ocean Blvd. there actually was a fog cover, and that made a huge difference.  We had a large core group still with us heading into the finish. 

As I saw the finish line looming in the distance, I remember I told the group we were going to run it in....we started the run, and after like a full minute...I realized that it was still really far away....I had underestimated how much further it was....Lonnie was right by my side...I took one look at him...and he said "let's walk."...and I immediately called a walk.  When we finally were much closer...we ran it in.  I felt like such a rookie next to Lonnie.

2013 LA Marathon Finish

Lonnie Harris....a true class act....we will all miss him dearly.

If you would like to share your story about Lonnie, I will repost it for the group.

Walt

Reggie and Lelania's Story

Reggie & Lelania’s Marathon Story

First and foremost, my sister Lelania and I would like to thank all of the pace leaders and members of Run/Walk 6.  This year, you provided us with invaluable training advice, constant support, and profound words of wisdom along this journey of completing the LA Marathon; a journey that began for my sister and I eight years ago.  

In 2006, my sister suffered end-stage renal failure, and frankly, her life has never been the same since.  Without hesitation, I decided to become her kidney donor.  Since the transplant surgery in 2008, I am happy to say that my sister has been blessed with great health, and an even greater sense of purpose in life. This was the primary reason that we set a goal to run the LA Marathon—together. We decided to partner with the OneLegacy Foundation, to raise money and awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation.  

Our plan for the marathon was to train with the best group in town, the LA Roadrunners.  As we approached the big day, early forecast reports about the weather possibly being hot during the race, were unsettling to both of us. Hydration for a kidney donor like myself, and especially a kidney recipient, was of eminent concern for our health and safety during the course.  Hence, we proactively prepared for the day.  Having participated in several marathons in the past, my job was to coach Lelania during the race.  We both agreed that it was tantamount to stay with Run/Walk 6 for as long as possible on marathon day.  Lelania asked our friends and family members to station themselves strategically at various mile markers along the course.  Their mission was to not only give us moral support, but they also agreed to supply us with a replenishment of food, power gels, and Gatorade throughout the race.  Lelania also needed her daily dosages of medication, as well. 

From the start of the marathon, everything seemed fine.  At first, our pace was a little fast, but after a while we settled into a nice, comfortable stride.  Then, the unexpected happened.  At around mile 4, right before the big hill that approached Grand Ave., my sister said that she felt a slight pop in her ankle, followed by an acute tingling feeling throughout her lower, left leg.  She instantly made me aware of the occurrence, and I casually suggested that maybe she should try loosening her shoelace.  “Reggie, I’m loosing feeling in my left leg,” she replied.  

I selfishly thought to myself, “Okay, I expected to start facing issues around the latter portion of the marathon, but at mile 4?  This is ridiculous!”  Then, in my head, I heard the mandate that my father, a hardnosed retired law enforcement agent. The day before the marathon, his final words to me were: “Whatever you do, Reggie, take care of your little sister.   Run with her the entire race, and don’t let her out of your sight.”  The concern of my father was expected.  After all, not only did my sister have some serious health concerns, but she is the youngest of his four children, and his only daughter.  In his eyes, she will forever remain “daddy’s girl.”  

Fearful of the repercussions of not following my father’s instructions, I stopped dead in my tracks and immediately started to survey my sister’s situation.  Lelania’s ankle didn’t appear to be swollen.  She loosened her shoelace, but to no avail.  I quickly suggested that she try stretching out her foot and ankle.  She frantically complied.  Meanwhile, we could both see our group, run/ walk 6, drifting farther away.  Eventually Lelania started to panic.  

Steadfast in my objective, I continued to hurl suggestions at my sister, with hopes to aid her possibly injured foot.  At this point, my sister started yelling at me, “Reggie, what do I do?  I can’t feel my leg?  WHAT DO I DO?”  Clearly my sister was having an anxiety attack.  To add insult to injury, she could barely hear my instructions.  Her iPod was turned up full blast, and I could hear the motivational music as it blared from her headphones.  

In an act of pure desperation, I made the decision that the only alternative was a dose of “tough love.” Throughout our lives, when faced with serious adversity, I’ve realized that harsh reality is sometimes the only thing that helps my sister to dig deep and tap into her own inner strength.  I snatched the ear buds from her ears, grabbed her by the shoulders, and lovingly shook her a few times.  “Calm down and listen to me,” I said.  “Either you are going to do this, or not.  You need to make a decision NOW!  You didn’t train this long and hard to give up without a fight!”  Looking me square in the eyes, she calmly replied, “Okay.  I’m going to do this.”  We both looked up.  By that point, Run/Walk 6 had disappeared into the massive sea of runners.  “I’m sorry, Reggie,” Lelania said to me with tears welling in her eyes.  

Eventually we started walking again, at a drastically reduced pace.  I tried to keep a close eye on Lelania, as she continued to stop in brief spurts to stretch and massage he ailing foot and ankle.  “Let’s run,” she suggested.  I though to myself that perhaps things would be okay, after all.  We started to run.  After a few strides, I turned around, and to my horror, my sister was gone.  In a few brief seconds, she had disappeared into the hazy mirage of marathon runners.  In a panic, I looked around for my sister, but she was nowhere to be found.  I immediately thought of my father’s plea to me about not loosing sight of my sister. Left with no pace group, no sister, and more than 22 miles to go, I was totally devastated. 

I checked my cell phone.  There were no messages or calls.  This didn’t surprise me, because prior to the race Lelania refused to carry a cell phone in her fanny pack. Perhaps, in her mind, this would reinforce the importance of us sticking together during the marathon.  However, this small technicality made the situation of losing my sister even more dreadful.  What would I tell my parents, namely my father, who were anxiously awaiting our arrival at mile 12, near LaBrea and Sunset?   

Somehow I was able to catch up with the group at around mile 7.  In spite of the fact that my sister was somewhere lost in the madness of the marathon crowd, brief conversations with members of Run/Walk 6 did help calm me down.  The pleasant distraction took my mind off the situation at hand, and helped to assuage some of the guilt of leaving my sister behind.

When I reached my parents, I regretfully explained to them what had happened.  They saw the look of utter defeat and remorse on my face, and were surprisingly quite understanding.  At their advice, I agreed to press on and meet my older brother and brother-in-law (Lelania’s husband) at the next rendezvous point—mile 16. 

When I arrived at mile 16, my bother and sister’s husband revealed to me that they had received text alerts (via the marathon’s runner tracking system) that Lelania, in spite of her injured foot, was still moving.  Astonishingly, she was only about 30 minutes behind me.  Needless to say, I was somewhat relieved.  I offered to wait for her, and actually remained at mile 16 for about 20 minutes.  By then, the sun was blazing and the brief rest was rejuvenating.  Chris, my sister’s husband suddenly said to me, “Reggie, this is something that Lelania may have to do on her own.  She’ll be okay.  Our friends and family members are all along the route to keep an eye on her.  You’ve got to keep going.” After receiving some security that my sister was okay, I realized that needed to keep going, for us both.

The rest of the race was grueling for my sister and I.  The heat, at times, was unbearable, and the virtual absence of Gatorade was unnerving.  In the end, I’m more than happy to say that Lelania and I were victorious.  After I crossed the finish line, I waited for my sister.  I was elated when I saw her limping towards me, with a shining medal around her neck.  

After the race, while icing her still sore left ankle, Lelania told me that the moment of “tough love” that we shared, played a big part in what kept her going.  In the words of Lelania, “Reggie, when you told me that I didn’t train for more than 6 months to give up without a fight, the reality of the situation really kicked in for me.”   My sister, Lelania, has always been a fighter. She has never allowed anything to stop her from pursuing her goals in life…not a failing kidney, not an injured foot, not even a marathon. I am so proud of my sister for finishing the LA Marathon.  Most of all, I am overjoyed that this was yet another obstacle that we got through in life—together.  

To read about our personal organ donation story, and to support our cause, please log onto our website at: http://onelegacyfoundation.kintera.org/asicslamarathon/lelaniastephens

Reggie Coleman
Lelania Stephens

Lisa, Christian and Carol's Stories

Dear Walt:

I want to thank you, Bill, Jaime, Nancy & Patricia for all of your efforts to encourage, inspire & motivate the group. This is my third marathon & this was my favorite training group despite the injuries & other life happenings that I experienced that prevented me from completing some of the longer runs. I appreciate you welcoming the RW6 into your studio for breakfast & just your overall hospitality. Raylette (pink shirt) experienced her 1st marathon & although we didn't finish with the group I wanted you to know that we did it! I was so looking forward to the BBQ but it is my son's grand opening of his barber shop & due to some staff issues he's gonna need my help tomorrow so I'm going to miss it but wanted to thank you just the same. When Raylette & I were overwhelmed with the heat, we kept encouraging each other with your words & different things you would say & we made it. Thank you again!

Lisa
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HI Walt, this is Christian, I joined the group late in the game but I DID finish with you guys.  Steve forwarded me the BBQ info but I won't be able to make it.  But I DID want to thank you.  I'm not sure if you knew it or not, but you kept me going.  Especially around mile 19/20, I just really wanted to stop, but your words of encouragement kept me with you.  I feel privileged to have run this race with you and your team.  My first marathon was hot and hard, but the chants and cheers will always be the highlights of the run.  Not sure who took that picture at the end, with all of us who finished together but I would LOVE a copy. 

 

Again, thank you.

 

~Christian Vogl

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Hi Walt-Run/Walk 6,

Here's my story:

This is my 2nd year with LARR. And boy has it been a challenging season for me. Recovering from a bike accident   Which left me 2 months without any physical activity was dreadful in itself. With the wonderful leadership from Walt, Nancy, Bill, Jamie & Patricia and seeing the rest of the groups dedication showing up weekly, made it so encouraging for me to push through the pain and kept me moving forward! Especially reading Walt's weekly emails!

Cross training in the mean time with cycling, swimming & easy hikes I eventually started trying to play catch up with running, (which I know in longer miles it's impossible). Week after week I just went with the flow and did the best I can. It wasn't until January I decided, I'm going for it, I'm paying & signed up for the marathon as well! The night before the marathon I had a conversation with Teon who mentioned to me about another group member  who was doubting to do the marathon because she too was recovering from an injury and not sure about running it. Before we knew it, after exchanging cell numbers thru Teon, we planned to give it our best run with the group then stick together when we fall behind. Who would know, that last text message the night before with Lisa (Boyle) would mean so much to me on Marathon day!

I had all my gear layed out. Mind and body feeling a bit nervous and achy (as it did every time before our long runs) but my soul was in the game and ready to go! Seeing everyone that morning, then heading over to the corrals with you all was so comforting and exciting! The positive uplifting energy of the thousands of runners all around us was priceless! Seeing Walt's W balloon added to it, cause at least I had an eye on him when we would leave as a group. Leaving Dodger Stadium was an Amazing,.........Overwhelming feeling of Joy! Then doing the wave and seeing everyone else join in with us was so cool! Even though we were pushing through faster than I anticipated, I was feeling good. Not till we got to the monster hill pass Broadway did I dread the most! Even though we walked it up, I slowly saw the group walking up faster than I can keep up. So I knew this was it.

Then I had to use the bathroom. I did my best to hold off as long as I could knowing once I stopped to do so, I would lose you guys. With the heat getting the best of me drinking all the fluids, I finally had to stop to use the br. So early on, I lost you all and just kept moving forward to the best of my ability. The heat continued to rise and and I felt my self slower and slower until I was only able to walk. Thank God Lisa and I stuck together because I know, she helped me tremendously knowing I wasn't in it alone! We started making the best of it, and each time we passed the band's Lisa would start dancing and it just helped take the pain off my mind. We took advantage of all the water stations just to keep hydrated. Luckily I had a lil towel I kept wetting and placed behind my neck and alternated on my head.

Every time I heard and felt my interval watch go off and tell me to run, I found myself walking through more of them then I would of liked. I deeply struggled with the heat. Seeing and feeling my hands and feet swell, feeling nausea at times, and dry mouth I knew I was experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion. As much water, electrolyte drinks I continued to drink I just couldnt quench my thirst. Lisa and I made goals to run as much as we can. Seeing friends at mile 6, 8, and 19 with ice cold gatorade and cliff bars was rejuvenating! Reading messages from friends on FB and text messages, gave me the burst of energy to keep going! Getting pushed up on the sidewalks by motorcycle police and garbage trucks rolling into clean was a sore sight and hurt my morale. But I just felt like saying, sweep me up while your at it! Lol.

At last we were coming down San Vicente and I knew we were home sweet home! Getting nervous that we would not make the 8 hour mark and receive our medals after all we endured, I told Lisa after looking at her and seeing how good she looked to go ahead without me so she can get her 1st medal at least. She chose not to and said, "nope I'm sticking with ya!"

The turn around Ocean was an amazing feeling that yes we are going to finish this! Still not knowing if we would receive our medals or not, we continued and came across a disabled guy with a special knee brace walking the marathon! That gave is the boost we needed and we finished strong running into the end! Even though we were diverted to the right for the finish line, We Did IT!!! So excited running into the end, I ran in holding my hands up high, crying with JOY passing by the ladies giving out the medals- one came after me to put it around my neck!!!:) Sorry it took all week, Ive been focused on recovering because I'm doing my first triathlon in the morning! Wish me luck! Look forward to a PR next year! See ya all soon! :)

Carol Martinez

Walt's Story

Walt's Story - It's a long one.   

It's been amazing reading all the great stories, and the thing that keeps coming to my mind is, what did we all get out of this. 

Each time I've done this Marathon, it's been completely different.  I do remember another year when it started hot, and got hotter, and I knew I was in trouble from the start.  I hate the hot weather, I sweat when I do my training in the cold early morning hours, I rarely wear a jacket when I run.  I was an assistant PL during that other hot marathon, and I felt really bad mainly because I couldn't keep up with the group, and I ended up walking the last 6 miles, it was not a Run/Walk group...it was a full Run group. I felt bad for quite a long time after that, like I had failed in some important way...but I did come back and I returned to the program.

So I knew this one was going to be bad, I really was full of anticipation, I knew my weakness.  I didn't want to be negative and over think it, I didn't want to start and submit to a predetermined sense of failure.  I didn't want to let my fears to overshadow all the great first timers that have trained so hard. So I had this speech in my head as to what I was going to say to the group at Dodger stadium before we started. I wanted to let them know that no matter what happens out there, we already were champions because we had made it to the start.  I had this clear idea of a rousing motivating pep talk....but when I gathered everyone together before we went out....I looked at all your faces, and I almost lost it...I didn't want to breakdown into tears in front of everyone, but that's what I felt inside, I was so overwhelmed with pride at how well everyone had done, and now I was sending them out to the wolves. I can't remember what I said, the words didn't come out like I had envisioned....but I just tried to get everyone pumped up some how.

I don't know why I came up with that stupid idea to carry a "W" balloon....John...I miss you because you always came with a simple white baseball design balloon and that always worked in the past.  So on Saturday, I'm driving around crazy to find a large helium filled W....I did find one downtown eventually...and then it wouldn't float up normally, so I had to hold the damn thing and keep my arm up.  But if you saw the start on TV, there we were...a big W crossing the start line. I taped it, and can show everyone at the BBQ.  Finally I tied it off in Chinatown, and left it behind, but then a few miles later....we saw it sailing away up into the sky.  That made it all worthwhile.

My memories of the marathon were erratic....some great moments, and some not so great. We started off at a fast clip...the first three miles we did a 14min/mile pace (target 15min/mile) but since we did have the cloud cover, the energy of the crowd and the downhill sections...I figured this was good to bank these fast miles. I knew we would slow down later....and of course walk that giant hill up to the Disney Hall.  Speaking of hills....yes our first wave leaving Dodger Stadium was great...we got so many people doing it, too bad the TV cams weren't there.  When we did it again around mile 14 leaving Sunset Blvd. heading down to Bev Hills, that was another great group one too.

Going through Little Tokyo...I saw a giant Pikachu..it was this guy Louis I know, taking pictures wearing this full length yellow outfit.  We ended up seeing him like 4 times throughout the run...I have no idea how he did that.  Louis himself is an amazing guy...did a few Ironman Triathlons...think his next race will be 50miler.  

I know we all got hit hard in Hollywood...that sun just came blazing down on our backs...I remember saying at least it's not in our faces.  This kinds of reminds me of that torrential ran one....it hit us hard around the same area too...and wouldn't let up either.  Now that some of us have done both....extreme heat or extreme cold rain....I'll pick the rain any day. 

It was after that, that I started to notice certain folks were quietly disappearing, and I was just so focused on keeping the group moving forward, that I was trying not to worry too much. Somehow I honestly believed that they would be okay and make it to the finish. 

Along the way, we picked up a few folks, and it was great to have them along for the ride.  We also had Shino, who had trained with my old RW5 group a few years ago, and she stuck with us through the entire distance.  Then there were a few folks, who I didn't know, but they hung in with us for most of the way.  Andrew was the tall guy who helped me by just being there.  Gary, of course was our former RW coach, and I ran several marathons with him, and his wife Barbara was also my PL for a few marathons.  So it was great having him checking in on me and helping me through some tough sections.

I guess we were just a bit ahead of schedule, so my sister Ed and Wayne missed us at mile 17...then it became a scramble to come up with an alternate intersection to get to us our little snack bags and bananas.  They eventually did find us around mile 19, and boy what a relief that was.  We had bagged peanut butter filled pretzels, gummy bears, pretzels, a peppermint hard candy, and some jelly beans.

Not sure how much everyone ate, but it was just great to see family and Jessie, my oldest helping out.

I knew Bill had fallen back a bit, and so did Jamie....and Daanee was pretty funny about needing to use the bathroom, but didn't want to wait in line....so she finally phoned a friend along the route, and asked if she could just run in and use the bathroom. We saw her run off and disappear into an apartment building...hope it was a good stop. 

The heat was really bad, and I had my own doubts about whether I could actually handle it.  Every water station now become a ritual...drink at least one cup, another on my neck, another in my hat...and maybe drink and rinse out another.  It must of worked because I just kept going.  Every now and then...a slight hill or a nice chunk of shade, I would make sure we walked a bit more. 

I kept fighting within myself of trying to maintain a reasonable pace...we were still slightly ahead of schedule...we had surprisingly banked enough time, but I knew we were going to use that up going up the VA and into Brentwood, since I would be calling 1/1s through there.

But I couldn't tell if I was hitting the wall....or I was just plain numb and nauseous, but it was cloudy in my head pretty much for the entire last 6 miles.  I didn't have the energy to tell stories, or be entertaining...I had a weak attempt of leading a cheer through that tunnel in the VA...but boy I felt pretty useless and pathetic.  So all I could focus on was to keep moving, run/walk...call it out...try to keep people moving.  I just wanted to finish and be done.

I remember telling Patricia....who was solid as a rock, to get Nancy to come up front and call the intervals....Nancy, who is always so helpful....just bounced up there and with her usual pleasant self...and just took over.  I was so dead at that point....we went back to our 2/1s just as we started down San Vicente after 26th St.  It seem to take forever....those mile markers were so far a part....and I know Ocean would be even longer....but deep down inside....I knew I had kicked the monkey off my back, and that I was going to finish on a blistering hot day...and still make our target.  My garmin watch had us completing 26.5 miles...avg. pace at 14:51....in 6:33.

A group of us gathered and did our finish cheer.....Kick Ass it was.  I got my medal, and went back to the finish line hoping that I could wait for the rest of the folks to finish.  Both Gary and Barbara were there too.  I know Patricia and Nancy wanted to wait too, but then Nancy really wasn't feeling well, so they went to search for water.  I knew I had this problem last year...and sure enough it started to happen again...as I couldn't focus my eyes....or control the dilation, as everything would get really bright and overexposed.

I saw just a handful of people, and I finally after only 30 min. had to call it a day, and go find my sister and the ride home.

What I got out of all this, was that I think I had trained well this year....luckily no injuries, no major illness...and even though I was a bit more serious about this run, and maybe was guilty of pushing the group too hard on this unforgiving day. I had this over consuming fear that I might fail the group and not be there to lead them to the finish.  I wish I could have not been so concerned about this, since as it turned out, little pods of RW6 was scattered throughout the course, and some folks were able to support and help each other. 

I hope that everyone did finish, knowing that if it weren't for the heat, they would have been right there with the front group....even with a few bathroom stops...on a more normal day...they would have caught back up.

So did we all accomplish out goal...yes...we started the marathon, and we finished it....and given the weather...the time is not that relevant...everyone got the same medal.  On a more technical note....I was doubtful whether the change in the training schedule was going to be good enough.  In the old days we would work in three 20 milers...including one of them being a 22 miler.  Things have changed drastically, and the science of endurance training has really been more thought out.  I would say on the surface it did work well, but will have to try this all over again and hope to have cooler temperatures to really tell if this new training sched. is actually better.

I hope everyone got something special out of this culmination of our training.  It was tough, brutal, unfair how hot it got, but we survived.  If we can survive this, then all of life's other challenges may seem more manageable.  Like Jo's situation with her mom, Teon's struggle in spite of all his race training, Ann and Brent's comeback after cancer treatment, and of course Steve's most memorable year of physical hardship.....we too can join this elite survivors club. Nothing but pride...we left it all out there on the course...nobody held back.

We came, we ran, we kicked ass....we are RW6.

Walt

Irene, John and Brent stories

Dear Walt -  
Like all the RW6 participants before me, first and foremost, thanks to you for being such an inspirational leader, mentor and friend.  You, Nancy, Bill, Patricia and Jamie are the most talented and coordinated group of PLs! You gave me confidence and made me feel like part of the family even though my participation was sporadic, as I was only training for half of the work (and fun?!) for the charity relay.
Thank you as well, Walt, for coming to my company last year to kick off our running club season representing LARR!  You inspired a full room of colleagues and boosted participation in RR, in all we had over 70 participate in the Marathon or Half Marathon. 
I've completed 2 marathons and this was my second LA half in support of the Fulfillment Fund.  That said, the coaching reminders, the tips and tricks were still important.  Whatever you said, I did it. If I heard it 2 or 3 times, even better. I placed everything out the night before, used body glide, packed advil with my gu and shot blocks, brought extra gatorade, and at the Expo I never tried anything new (like coconut water ;). 
I got my best sleep on Friday night, knowing Saturday night may be tough with the time change. Even though I was only doing a 1/2, I still had the stress dream of falling behind the pace group.  I changed my clock at 5pm Saturday because I kept forgetting when I would need to go to bed. 
At Dodger stadium, I appreciated being part of LARR, taking photos and hearing strong inspirational words from Walt right before walking to the corral.  Walt seemed extra serious, so I knew the heat would be extra tough, and I was nervous for the team.  Of course, the big gold "W" balloon offset that and we did have the best waves and "wees" especially through the tunnel in the beginning of the race.  It was also a thrill to see Kristi's face when her husband surprised her by joining her for the marathon fun - now that's true support!
I started to fall behind the group right before my 13 mile end point, so I didn't get to shout out "Way to Go RW6" for your second half, but you all looked strong, albeit a bit hot ;)   I went to the finish line to see my buddy Cynthia finish, and 40 minutes in the friends & family area was so hot, I can only imagine how you all felt.  So, CONGRATS and ENJOY your success! 
I will be camping with the 3rd graders this weekend so will miss Walt's bodacious BBQ!  I hope to see you at the totem pole in April for an easy 6 miler or so, and perhaps next year as well!
Best,
Irene

John’s Story   2014
Today, the day after the LA Marathon, my lower extremities and my imagination tell me that running or even walking a marathon is the one and only way to safely replicate the experience of being hit by a Mack truck, but only from the waist down.  Actually my head and stomach don’t feel that great today either, but I complain too much. 
After struggling both mentally and physically with the RW6 pace for two years, I decided to train with Leah’s Walk 4 group this year.  The training went very well.  So did the marathon.  8 hours 9 minutes, which was 1 hour and 11 minutes less than my 9:20 all time record last year, but that was last year’s very long story.
About mile 7 I saw this lady on the sideline, a perfect silo, very short and very wide in an orange dress/tent.  With a gasp, I said to someone in my group, “Oh my God, did you see that lady in the orange dress?”  At which time another lady in my group right in front of me turned around and said, “John, just one year ago I was that lady in the orange dress.”  For a split second a shot of about to be embarrassed crossed my mind but in the same split second my visual survey of all her curves prompted the instantaneous reply, “Wow! Congratulations!  How did you do it?”  It turns out she had the stomach sleeve procedure and then started training for the marathon.  She indicated she still had a way to go and was planning to reduce further and do the training and marathon again next year, all this at mile 7 of a former fat lady’s first marathon.  
About mile 16, I teamed up with another Walk 4 buddy who had overheard the above exchange and we decided to do a tag match walking with this lady to help her finish her first marathon.  We all finished together.  She did just fine, probably better than her helpers.  Shortly after we crossed the finish I said to her that next year I wanted to see her cross the finish line looking so fine that I will not be able to resist the urge for inappropriate touching.  She said that she would welcome that touching.  (and she later approved this story)
I miss RW6.  You guys are the greatest, but, Damn--I can’t wait for next year!
John Schilling
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Hi Walt,

Here's my story.

This was my 4th Roadrunner season, and I've learned that the camaraderie and energy of the group experience really helps.  Thank you to everyone and especially our wonderful Pace Leaders.

Prior to the race day, I told my friends that my goal was to cross the finish line in a vertical position before dark. But, in my heart, I really wanted to finish with our group.  I was thankful that we got nearly 10 miles in before the sun came out, but the hot weather eventually did me in.  I stayed with the group until about mile 19, but started dropping back after doing more walking than I wanted. The mind was willing, but the flesh was weak.

I saw Judi, Gail and Dori between mile 19 and the finish line.  Those conversations helped keep me going.

One really encouraging experience for me was a fellow wearing a San Francisco Marathon t-shirt at about 19th Street along San Vicente.  He didn't know me, but I must have looked just about ready to keel over.  He saw my name, pointed to me and said very firmly, "Brent, you're going to finish this thing!  I can tell by the determination in your eyes.  You're going to finish!"  It really touched me to hear him say that, and it taught me that you never how much an encouraging comment will mean to someone.

I did cross the finish line vertically and managed and to keep it under 7 hours.  It was great to see my wonderful and supportive wife, Anne, at the end.  I proudly wore my medal to work the next day, and my workplace made a big deal out of it with lots of congratulations and even posting an announcement in the lobby.  

So, thinking back on the whole experience and considering my age, my weight, and that I'm being actively treated for cancer, I'm pretty proud of myself and thankful to God for such a great group of running friends surrounding me.

Brent Stutzman

 

More Personal Stories

I loved every minute of this year's run though I did miss running with the group!  At mile 2 water station, I felt the need for water so left the group for 'just a minute'.   When I headed back to the middle of the street, I'd lost sight of the group.   Trusting my training, I just kept going with the hope of catching up.   When I caught a 5:30 pace group, it dawned on me that perhaps I wasn't behind the group.  This was confirmed by Judy (we passed each other several times) and when I stopped for a bathroom break and saw the group running strong... I was so proud you all!  I managed to stick with our 2/1 interval for most of the run.   It was too hot, so I kept pouring water over my head and down my back.  I also had to stop twice to re-glid my feet.   That did help, though as I was able to run strong (14:07) at the last leg of the race and finish just about 10-15Minutes behind my target pace.   (Only one blister and that's healing nicely.)  

The RW6 pace leaders are truly awesome.  It was great to see Walt at the finish line and Nancy and Patricia in the Roadrunner recovery tent.   I saw both Bill and Jamie a couple of times during the Marathon and Bill walked with me back to the parking lot after the finish.

Thanks to each and every one of you for making this such a great experience.   It's not my first marathon... I did that at 40... but this was one of my favorites!  It's nice to know that, while we each have to did deep to complete a challenge like this.. we are not out there alone.

Gail Goulet
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Hey Walt, 

I know I didn't go out with RW6 on Sunday, but I wanted to share my experience if that's okay.

Also, my bib#E8049  I couldn't figure out how to send you one of the photos.

Marathon Notes - Ann’s Story

First a thank you. To Walt, Bill, Nancy, Patricia and Jamie for their guidance, dedication and inspiration. You are an amazing team.

You should know that sometimes I get a little carried away.  As brand new runner, I chose to go straight for a full marathon.  After training with RW6 for most of the season, I moved down to a walking group as I addressed some health issues (anemic and out of breath). I remembered Walt’s coaching about knowing when to push and when to back off and rest but still I worried I might not be ready for the big day. Then I remembered Walt’s email about the real benefits being the commitment and training we have already done and that race day is like dessert.

I realized how much I have already gained over the course of the training. I learned how to run for the first time in my life, tackled some nagging hip and knee issues that are better now than they’ve been in years and showed myself I could commit to a big, long-term training goal.

So on race day, I went out with Leah and Walk4.  I knew if I could just stay with the group I would be on track and might just finish.  It was really emotional for me.  Got all choked up at the national anthem thinking about how fortunate we are to live in a society where we have the freedom to do things like this.  The crowd was exhilarating and for a while in the first few miles I thought, maybe I’ll speed up and catch Walt and the group.  My better judgement kept me in check. I could always speed up later in the race if I felt up for it. 

Seeing all the colors and runners filling the streets downtown was amazing. The taiko drummers lifted the energy so much that the huge hill felt like no problem. Along the route, I was falling in love with the city and everyone in it: the funny signs, the inspirational ones, free chili cheese dogs, all the water volunteers (especially the ones pouring it over our heads) and so many people out in the heat cheering for us when the main pack had passed hours before. 

Speaking of the heat, the Century City to VA stretch felt like crossing the Sahara.  The LAFD and water volunteers were lifesavers. Hearing the familiar voices and keeping in conversation with members of the walking group helped distract from my cramped, blistering toes and cranky hips.  As we left the VA, I thought the rest is our home route and it occurred to me I’m really going to finish.  At Mile 23, my good friend Leslie showed up and as we talked and laughed I sped up, forgetting about toes and heat and other unpleasantness.  She stayed and we walked the last three miles together. Just before the finish line I saw two more friends, including the one who got me into Roadrunners. He stayed two hours after his race just to see me finish. I was replenished by their love and support and jogged the rest of the way in, crossing the finish line with arms high in the air like I won the race. 

And this was a big win, as two years and one day prior, I was getting my last round of chemo for breast cancer. How things have changed. I am so very grateful for this healthy body and the incredible people in this training group who each have their own struggles and continue to show up. Thank you for demonstrating weekly the strength that builds in each of us and spills over onto the whole group when we tackle something tough. 

With love, grit and gratitude,

Ann Braden

“We are exploring together. We are cultivating a garden together, backs to the sun. The question is a hoe in our hands and we are digging beneath the hard and crusty surface to the rich humus of our lives.” 

― Parker J. Palmer, Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation

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First I would like to thank everyone in RW6 for all their support as I could not have done this without you.

Congratulations to all for your dedication and hard work !

Went to the expo on Friday morning.  As I was walking through the parking structure we received a text saying that there was a 2 hour wait.  We all looked at each other and said they must be lost.  We ventured up through the convention center and there was the line as far as we could see.  Luckily the line was moving pretty fast.  Enjoyed the expo and made a cheer video for RW6 which I did not see on the course.

Saturday morning had all my clothes laid out,  bib pined on,  clocks turned forward,  and a relaxing day.

Went to bed at 8:00p and was up each hour after that nervous and excited about race day.  I think I fell a sleep at 1 and woke up at 2 to get ready for breakfast.  Could not eat breakfast at 2am so my potty schedule was a bit off.  Now I was a little worried.  Took the shuttle from Santa Monica with no incident.  Arrived at Dodger Stadium and I could see the excitement on everyone's face as the moment was near.  A bit warm in the Stadium but I knew there was nothing I could do.  A beautiful morning sunrise over us as the start line as we waited for the National Anthem and the gun to go off.

I always enjoy the first half of the marathon but as the clouds lifted towards mile 13 I knew I was in trouble as I overheat easily.  I thought to myself that "There will come a day" and unfortunately that day was today.  I had a few conversations with myself,  some good and some not so good but I knew I had to push on.  I ran into Doug and Daanee at the V.A and walked with them.  Boy was it hot there.  I grabbed a 1 gallon and carried it with me for a bit.

Spoke to a Legacy runner and then ran into Tara and a few other Roadrunners that were handing out goodies.  It was great to see you there.  Thanks to Walt's Sister Esther and his brother in law Wayne as your support is always much appreciated.  So happy for everyone,  you are truly amazing.  Hope to see you at the BBQ.

Jamie Davis

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Steve is probably the most amazing "Come Back Kid".  After suffering a heart attack on Dec. 17, 2013, missing weeks of training, he comes back to join RW6 with a stent in his artery...then during our last Dodger Stadium hill training, he pulls a calf cramp that stops him in his tracks.  He then still comes back and joins us for the start of the Marathon.  Here is his story. 

Sorry for a bit of a delay in putting my story to paper. I really wanted to reflect on my experience with the marathon. 1^st, I would definitely want to say that I am proud to have been a part of R/W 6 and the great pace leaders and especially Walt Louie for the great leadership and honestly the out and out fun we shared as a group.

I also wanted to say that it was nice having Christian as my race partner, although I probably surprised her when I veered off to use the bathroom. I started training with the Roadrunners since 2007, and I have to say that if I didn’t have Walt Louie to rely on, I cannot honestly say that I would not have persisted with marathon training and all that it entailed.  Its a funny/strange thing to begin to be involved in long distance running, and certainly not very relatable to the general public and non runners. So to have a group that you know, barring an unforeseen circumstance, will always be there every Saturday is a very comforting thought. And I always felt a reliability to our group. I know that even if I did not feel like being there, the group was depending on me to show up to hold up my end of the group “bargain” and be a positive member of the group. Thank you.

As far as this marathon, I have to say, I really had a great 1^st half, and I was really disappointed that I had to pull off somewhere at mile 11 and use the portapotty. I knew I would lose the group if did, but when nature calls, you got to answer! After I rejoined the course, I knew I was going to run into trouble as I felt my body temperature rise, I knew I was in for a battle. I was doing OK up through Sunset in West Hollywood, than I trailed off to majority walk.

I also knew that I probably had a burst blister below the Achilles tendon, and this really concerned me since I knew that with blood thinners on board, I might have a situation where the bleeding may not stop. Surprisingly, I didn’t have any issues regarding my heart, but it was on my mind throughout the race. As I rounded out to the VA, I really felt as though I was ready to stop and quit, but knew that if I just persisted, I would finish the race.

I “posted” my wife and another couple at 10^th & San Vincente, knowing that if I could use her as motivation to get that far, I would finish the race. It was not my best finish time, but considering my heart incident in Dec. 2013, and subsequent hospital stay in Las Vegas, I was very happy when I was given the green light to rejoin the group. I remember when Walt announced what had happened to me, and the welcome I experienced coming back to the group.

I'm looking forward to the celebration of our group accomplishment at Walt’s famous BBQ this Saturday.

All the best,

  

Steve Schleikorn
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I wish to thank Walt, Bill, Nancy, Jamie, Patricia and my wife, Alice, for being the BEST. It is indeed a privilege to train with such a wonderful group of people.

It was HOT......

I knew with the weather forecast that the 2014 Los Angeles Marathon would be trouble. I do not do well in the heat - especially, not well, running in the heat.

My plan was to start the first mile with the group (running a 2:1 interval) and then assume my customary 30 second run and 30 second walk interval and stay alongside the group. This was not to be.

Luckily, I found Carolina. She and I ran together for the first 9 or 10 miles until the heat ate me up and I told her to run ahead.

Alone for the next few miles, I was dreading my nemesis, Santa Monica Blvd. in Century City. But, who do I see?

Janet!

Walking by this time, we eventually met up with Cristina and like the 2013 LA Marathon we headed together towards the finish line.

While this marathon was physically and mentally demanding, I think I finally figured it out after nine years.

Alice told me in the morning before we left for the Santa Monica shuttle to have fun - AND I did!

Bart Yasso has it right: "Don’t measure every run by your watch or the distance you covered, but by the number of friendships you create."

See you all at the BBQ, Roadrunner's Banquet and/or next season!

Greg Cole
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It has been an honor to be part of such a group of extraordinary individuals.

Congratulations to everyone and a big thank you for being there every step of the way.

This was my 5th full marathon but I was just as excited as if it was my 1st.   It carried a special feeling as it was my first as a PL.  Thank you Walt for your dedication and support,  Bill for keeping it joyful,  and Nancy for being awesome you.  Oh yeah,  and thank you to Jamie too.

Everything seemed to be going great until mile 13.  When Walt asked,  how I was doing,  I said,  great,  and started to cry.  I was hot,  thirsty,  and this went on all the way until I finished,  in between there were moments where I felt a little better and would say to myself,  just keep going forward.  I cannot stop now.  I would listen to Walt's cadence,  and was sandwiched between Nancy and Stephanie a former RW6 runner who later joined us.  They carried me to the end.

With much love and admiration to you all.

Patricia Ayala
--------------------------------

Hi Walt,

Here is my story.

This was a very different marathon for me.  I knew with the hot weather and my training schedule during last 3 months that I would most likely be behind the pace.  What I didn’t know was that my husband had registered for the marathon last November.  I was so surprised when he came up beside me before the first mile maker.  He had decided that he would run with me and support me during the race.    At mile 10, friends from church and my twin daughters and my 4 month old granddaughter were waiting to cheer me on and my daughter Elise jumped in and ran with me for 8 miles. 

John & I saw a number of friends along the course, both runners and spectators. Some expected, some a nice surprise. My friends and fellow RW6ers really kept me going.  Irene waited at mile 13.1 to cheer me on after she completed her leg of the relay race.  I saw Greg, Janet, Christine and Pam along the course.  Just a couple of words of encouragement can keep you moving when you are hot and tired.

 By the time I reached mile 16, I was really feeling the effect of the heat.  I was pouring water on my head and down my back.  My daughter Kirsten was waiting at mile 18 with crushed ice to cool me down which really helped to keep me going.  Putting it under my hat was amazing.

 Although I finished slower that I would have liked, I feel good about my race with the high temps.  I had incredible support from family and friends this year.  I am truly blessed.  

Walt, I want to thank you, Bill, Jamie, Patricia and Nancy for all your support and encouragement.  I think we have the best team of pace leaders in the program!

Kristi Magnussen