Rob Lykins, General Member
This run started as a dream of a few friends running across Michigan, sleeping in tents on the side of the road when we were tired, and eating whatever we could carry. With the help of three organizations, The Rochester Area Jaycees, Blessings in a Backpack, and Meijer, the team of nine saw their dream become reality.
Each member of the team brought something special to the run. The bulk of the runners ran approximately 35 miles, with one runner running a total of 52 miles over the 37 hours. Everyone on the team (including the drivers) contributed by running at least one mile. Even though the run started 2.5 hours later than scheduled, the team managed to finish only 45 minutes after the target end time. After the first 2 miles the team had settled in to a schedule and the run went as smooth as planed. On top of each runner rotating and running every 4-5 hours, the team faced many other challenges. Some challenges they faced were:
- The RV getting stuck in traffic and arriving an hour and 45 minutes late
- One of the runners forgot their running shoes (and borrowed a pair for the run)
- A team member missed a connecting flight and met up with the team 5 minutes before the run started
- The RV missed a turn and lost the team for about 15 minutes
Through all the obstacles, the team remained positive and had a great time. With 9 people living in an RV the attitude and atmosphere could have been anything. Over the 234 miles in 37 hours you did not hear any complaining. Just light conversation and laughing.
Goals were accomplished, many memories were created and will be shared with friends and family for years to come (raymond). From the team of runners we would like to say thank you to The Rochester Area Jaycees, Blessings in a Backpack, and Meijer for all the support and help.
Thank you for all of your help and support,
Robert Lykins and the rest of the team