The Best Send Off A Runner Can Have (South Whidbey Record)

When Whidbey Island-based runner Matt Simms received 12 days notice that he was going to be shipped to Iraq, he made sure to make enough time for his favorite 30k run. But what started as a solo run turned out to be a surprise farewell as his friends joined him mile-by-mile.

From the story:

“To have one of those (30k) runs fresh in my mind three or four days before I depart was critical to my well being. I would not have missed that run for anything,” Simms said.

and:

Simms said he was humbled by the group’s goodbye. “The energy I draw from the group is incredible, and it was nice to have that as a send-off to carry me forward for the 354 days I’ve got left (on duty).

Read Brian Kelly's whole story here.

SD