The Home Stretch
The team is on 322 and closing rapthrough State College. Our new ETA isFA few minutes before 1pm. We will then have right around 12 miles to run, or for some of us at this point, to limp.
With the end in site we’ve been able to sit back and enjoy ourselves a bit. After another all-nighter at sub 5.50 pace, we have slowed a bit. The hills on 322 have been brutal, and some of the guys are hurting to the point of limping on. We’re so far ahead of the World Record though that it doesn’t matter that we lose a minute or two. Everyone is too eager to do their share to not let everybody take their turn.
We had company on the road last night from Ed’s good friend Mark Lane. Mark drove the back roads of western PA to find us, all because he was so damn excited that he couldn’t sleep and wanted to be part of the attempt. He’s become the official videographer and advance dog adviser.
Teddy Quinn’s Dad and sister found us in the wee hours of this morning, and in one of the more emotional moments for those watching, they ran a mile segment together. Teddy, who started training full time 8 months ago just for this race, running on his own every night after work around Central Park, it was a fantastic moment.
The support we’ve received has been invaluable. Lisa Simko dropped off a cooler of beer and gu gels, while Harry Smith rode alongside the guys in Hudson, Ohio.
We’re close enough now to estimate our ETA at 12:56pm. We’re thinking that we’ll have about 12 miles left to run. After that there’ll be nothing left but the party!
You guys are amazing. I know of Nick from EHS and am a PSU alum. You all make me so proud! Keep up this incredible effort.
August 31, 2012 at 12:05 pm
They will have run 38+ marathons simply because it was on their way….they are the most interesting men in the world!!! Keep after it guys, you’re almost home!!!
August 31, 2012 at 12:30 pm
Our hearts are full as we think of the wonderful tribute to Kevins memory. Kevin was my grandson and he is always present in my thoughts. Once again… thanks to you all. We will await your return.Grandfather “Bud”
August 31, 2012 at 12:38 pm
Keep going guys! We are praying for you….this whole story gives me goosebumps. Finish strong!
August 31, 2012 at 1:07 pm
The team will be passing almost right past my office when you get into State College. If you keep posting location updates, I’ll be out to provide some encouragement. Good luck!
August 31, 2012 at 1:59 pm
When I clicked on the rally thing I thought I was doing a “like” and didn’t realize that it was an “attend” thing. I won’t be there, but I have been thinking about the runners all week long. I sure hope that the guys can take a week or two to rest and recover after this, and hope nobody developed any serious injuries along the way. Glad the journey ends soon!
August 31, 2012 at 3:24 pm
Congrats guys!! Ryan Blood is my cousin and I’ve been following the blog! You guys are very amazing!! Ryan we are sooo proud!! We wish we could of made it up to state college today but unfortunately we couldn’t! Once again congrats and what a amazing and wonderful job you guys have done:)
August 31, 2012 at 4:39 pm
You guys are awesome (and crazy), for all the right reasons. You are inspiring, as well, and a credit to the Penn State “family”.
August 31, 2012 at 6:19 pm
These guys were amazing to watch. I couldn’t believe how fast they were churning through the miles. You guys are truly awesome and inspiring!!!
August 31, 2012 at 6:42 pm
Great job on this tremendous record attempt! Looks like you guys were on pace to shatter the old one! Did you make it! Looking forward to reading more! All the best! RTE
September 1, 2012 at 2:23 pm