The first annual Longleaf Trace birthday
challenge was a huge success,
with over 200 happy people participating on an absolutely gorgeous day.
(190 persons registered in Prentiss, and an estimated 50-60 persons
started at other access points and came by the aid stations at some
point).
Congratulations to Harry Strohm and all the many people from Prentiss,
Bassfield, Carson, and Sumrall who worked to make this a fun event.
See Antha Esteridge's wonderful and complete report on
the event.
Also see Mr. J. E. Swager's very interesting report on his
participation .
Harry, I just wanted to tell you how much
the Longleaf Trace Run meant to
Jimmy & to me (his cousin) & to his family. He came to my sister's house
for a family get together today & we talked about the run & looked at
pictures. He is such a wonderful person & the recognition you gave him was
so
meaningful. He really is an inspiring person & he thinks the world of
you! Meeting Taylor was such a pleasure too! Again, my thanks for a hard job
well done. I look forward to the documentary. Sincerely, Rita Royals
Catherine Turner directs the preparations
at the main pavilion in the Prentiss
park
Dick Bennett gets a medal and certificate for finishing his challenge
Antha Estridge and Brooke Touchstone enjoy the warm
sunny day in Prentiss after completing their challenge.
See Antha Esteridge's complete report on the
event.
A member of the local bike club proudly displays his medal
after completing his challenge (63 miles) by bicycle
Dale Turner from the Lamar County Sheriff's office,
and Dean Williams, Lamar County District #2 Constable
arrive at the Trace to set up an aid station
Don Robbins helps man an aid station,
as a cyclist from Houston, Texas arrives
Jimmy Moore and Jeff Hathorn arrive at Don's aid station
The event was conceived to honor Jimmy's 80th birthday
Bassfield provided a very enthusiastic and
patriotic welcome to all participants
Dwight Hollingsworth and Bob Clark came from Gulfport to participate
Randy Lavender, Josh Sharpe, and Calos Ladner did 80K using arm power!
Cathy Fluger enjoyed going 28 miles
Harry Strohm, the organizer and event director, enjoys
a break at the rest
stop
in Carson, while Antha Estridge
ponders the 6 miles left in her 28 mile challenge
Amy Keywood cruises briskly along
Moby Overstreet did 50 miles!
Linda Hill, Jessie Burns, Adriane Burns, Antonio Williams, and Azoh Funches
manned the Mississippi State Department of Health aid station
Ray Gilday at mile 43 of his 50 miles
Harry and Taylor Stone pause in her 10K
challenge just long enough for a picture
Here's a note from her dad to Harry:
Dear Harry,
I want to say thanks once again for a very special day in Taylor's life.
When she called her Grandparents to tell them of her triumph, she said
that she ran it with her friend Harry and he made it easy. I'm so glad
that she has had the opportunity to meet someone like you in her life.
Angie and I appreciate your kindness. Taylor has mentioned sending Mr.
Moore a card if you have his address please pass it along. I hope you
and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We truly enjoyed your
loaned out birthday.>
Sincerely,
Michael Albert Stone>
Buddy Robinson, Becky Williamson, and Constance Munn manned the
aid station sponsored by Southern Pine EPA (with headquarters in
Taylorsville), but none would admit to being from Sullivan's Hollow