Sep 6, 2007 11:34 AM
Sailors and Marines Participate in Half Marathon From Persian Gulf
USS ENTERPRISE, AT SEA -- Although Marines and sailors in the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group were on duty on the USS Enterprise in the Persian Gulf, they were still able to run in the seventh annual Rock ’n’ Roll Half Marathon held on Aug. 30 in Virginia Beach, VA, thanks to the Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department’s creative efforts. Due to weather and lack of space, the race was completed on treadmills from the flag bridge.
Six four-member teams completed the marathon in 3.25-mile shifts, and one sailor finished the run on his own. All race times were recorded and turned in for official race results.
“I think it’s important we all practice self fitness, and what better way to do that than to run a marathon in the middle of the ocean?” says Master Chief Fire Controlman Kenneth Crane, who ran the entire race on his own. “I was already scheduled to run the marathon back in Virginia Beach (VA) before we were deployed, and I thought because I had the opportunity to run it out here, I would. Plus, I feel like I’m setting the example. This is my sixth race in the last year. It’s become more of a lifestyle for me, and I really love it.”
The event also served as a change to practice teamwork and was a nice break from day-to-day stress.
“This is a great place to run,” says Commander Daniel Holloway, Carrier Strike Group 12/Enterprise Strike Group. “I enjoy watching the action on the flight deck as our young sailors and Marines send our airplanes off to support the troops on the ground.”
Holloway also thanked the Virginia Beach Rock ’n’ Roll Half Marathon for supporting Carrier Strike Group 12.
“We appreciate the packages, the T-shirts, the gels and waters, and to be able to participate in the marathon is great to be a part of something back home where the great support is,” Holloway says.
The marathon’s top male and female finishers at each command received a special trophy. All race participants received an official Virginia Beach Rock ’n’ Roll Half Marathon finisher’s medal. Also, as a sign of encouragement, runners and walkers who competed in the half marathon in Virginia Beach, VA, sent letters of encouragement to deployed participants.
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