1. story #18 - Marge Garnero, Emeryville
My Life has Changed....
I started racewalking 3 years ago and am so happy that it is part of my life. M y
interest was piqued when I walked the Honolulu Marathon as part of the Leukemia
Society' Team in Training Program in 1996. Had I not received 2 brochures from the
Leukemia Society, I might not be writing this article today.
When I read the first notice I received, I thought the marathon sounded like a
great way to do something good for myself while making a contribution to a wonderfiil
cause. However, I put it aside because it was many years since I had run, and the thought
of training for a marathon was overwhelming. Coincidentally, another notice arrived in
my mailbox several days later. Something told me I should take a closer look, and in
doing so, I noticed you could also walk the marathon. I then became interested in
racewalking.
At the Honolulu Marathon, the coach for the Leukemia Society was a former
Olympian racewalker, and I was intrigued by his efficient, smooth style. Moreover, I saw
what a great total body workout racewalking was, and I wanted to get involved.
I pursued my interest by taking a class from World Class Racewalker, Jack Bray,
and by joining the Marin Race Walkers. Racewalking and Jack's energy, vitality, caring,
and love of the sport have truly enriched my life. Nevertheless, there were times when I
asked myself why Jack pushed us to the degree that he did. For instance, when he's in
front of me on the trail, he'll wave for me to catch up. What an effort it is, and as I grunt
and groan all the way to catch up, I'm then told, "Quiet, don't tell me; just get here; you
are wasting energy." And when I finally catch up, he proceeds to go just a little faster!
It's difficult in the moment to wonder what I am doing and why I ' m inflicting
such pain on myself. But, oh, when it's all over, I can't tell you how fantastic I feel, and
this makes the pain worthwhile. I still complain out on the trail, but I ' m working on that,
as I know Jack is right!
Racewalking has been beneficial to my psychological state as well. During my
late 20's, I went through a period of depression (my black/painfiil period). Fortunately, I
was under the care of a doctor who believed in exercise, diet, and relaxation. After
following a 2-month program he set up for me, I began feeling better, and since then,
exercise has been my savior. Although I have been into rurming, swimming, hiking, and
skiing ever since that time, racewalking seems to be the icing on the cake for me. I feel it
is something I can do for the rest of my life.
In addition to the physical and psychological components of this sport, the
mental/discipline aspect is also rewarding. When I ' m working out, I can count on being
totally focused in the moment, and I enjoy the concentration and challenge of trying to
achieve correct form, technique, and speed. A voice inside my head (probably Jack's)
constantly reminds me to pump arms, to move more hips, to relax the face and shoulders,
to lower the chin, and to smile; and always to stay young, strong, and fast.

2. W A V A Championships, Gateshead, England-1999
Left to right-Christi Elniff, Doris Cassels,
Marge Garnero, Virginia Fong, & Linda Burnett before the lOK-
Marin Race Walkers' circle before race at Gateshead, England

3. It is now rewarding to look back and to see how much stronger I am. I remember
the aches and pains, the ice packs and bath soaks, and the Advil I popped. Worse, though,
was collapsing on the sofa for the better part of the afternoon after weekend workouts.
All in all, racewalking has helped me get stronger, has taught me patience, has increased
my confidence, and has allowed me to have fiin.
My interactions and friendships with other racewalkers are also memorable. One
weekend, Dorothy Robarts complimented me on my visor. She said she usually wore one
like it but hadn't this time so as not to mess up her hair as she had a party to go to after
our workout. Dorothy was 87 at the time. I looked at her in disbelief and wondered how
she could be going to a party straight after a workout. I couldn't get to my bathtub fast
enough! I knew that I had lot of work and many miles to go before I could leave the
track after a workout and head straight for a party. I could do it now. Well, maybe with a
shower in between!
Another aspect of racewalking that I ' m learning about is competing, and that the
focus on self-improvement is as important as the win. I've never considered myself a
competitive person; me compete, never! It's not for me. Why would I want to do
something like that? It would take over my life; I would have to make commitments, it
would be a lot of hard work, etc., etc., etc.
Once again, it was Dorothy who inspired me and helped me realize it was only
fear that was holding me back. She commented to me once, " M y dear, you are missing
out on one of the most wonderful opportunities to learn something about yourself
Everyone gets nervous and anxious about racing. I felt the same way when I first started
racewalking at age 83, and now I am a World Champion in my age group, 85-89.1 want
to keep my ranking at the World Championships in South Africa this year, and so I
cashed in on my rest home policy to help pay for my trip."
Her words kept ringing loud and clear, and I thought that I had better get with it.
Here Dorothy was heading off to South Africa to race, and I couldn't get myself to a local
track to compete in a 5k. What was my problem? What it boiled down to was fear.
Well, I competed in my first race at the 1997 Nationals in San Jose, CA, one of my
greatest fears became reality; I came in last in my age group. Nobody laughed at me or
made me feel bad about it, though. In fact, everyone congratulated me on a job well done,
and that made me feel terrific. Once the nausea had subsided and my legs had stopped
shaking, coming in last wasn't so bad after all. Dorothy was right; I did learn, and I
continue to learn about myself What is ironic is that so much of what I am learning
through this sport seems to be carrying over into other facets of my life, and that is
exciting.
Jack and Sue have brought a wonderfiil group of people together. The positive
energy derived from club workouts and racing with teammates is incredible. It's been fiin
participating in various races, and it was an honor to be part of the Marin Race Walkers
representing the USA at the W A V A Championships in Gateshead, England last summer.
Overall, racewalking is a terrific sport, but it would not be nearly as much fiin
without our club and the wonderful members. Finding racewalking and the Marin Race
Walkers has been a gift, and the opportunity to know special people like Dorothy has
been an honor.

4. Wilfred George in the stands with 4-time Olympian Marco Evoniuk
Alongi in Marin 5K Classic-1995

5. story #19 - Wilfred George, Corte Madera
My Simple Story
When I was 5,1 learned to walk fast because my father walked rather fast, and he
would tell me to keep up with him. So, I tried and succeeded. I am still walking as fast as
I can. For instance, as the Larkspur Ferry docks in San Francisco, I try to out-walk
everyone who gets off the boat. I'm almost always the first one to reach the stoplight, and
the first to take off on a green light. I take stairs, up or down, whenever I can, as this is an
opportunity to exercise. -
Since my wife and I have only one car, I walk to new places every chance I get
and feel great when I get to my destination. The distances to the post office, grocery
store, or library are neither strenuous nor difficult. I see trips to these places as more
healthy opportunities to get exercise. I even walk my groceries, mail, and books home at
"full speed ahead."
However, there is just one mystery to me and perhaps to others: How does one
racewalk with 2 bags of groceries or with an attache case? The answer is of course that
one racewalks with the legs only without working the arms and pumps only during the
times when one's arms aren't fiill.
So how does that sound???
4

6. Norma Hadnutt and Dixie James
Proudly displaying their marathon medals-1998

7. Story #20 - Norma Hadnutt, San Rafael
Racewalking: The Experience for Life
M y husband and I met in London, and after a short while I learned that both
his father and grandfather were racewalkers. I never saw his grandfather walk, but I heard
many stories of his accomplishments. We have an award in our home that he received
from the Surrey Walking Club for a 7-mile race on May 17, 1919 with a time of 63-1/2
minutes. This was achieved without the benefit of Nike, and, in fact, he was racing in
ordinary leather street shoes. %
Over the years, I watched my father-in-law walk in several charity events and was
at first mystified and then intrigued by his unusual style. I often tried walking with him,
but I always fell behind panting for breath and feeling frustrated. What seems like just a
short time ago, I was visiting Yosemite and talking about how I needed an exercise
program. I started walking and thought back to my father-in-law. I tried copying what I
remembered of his gait, and noticed that I could move faster than when I walked
"normally." I wished I could join a club, but as I had never heard anyone talk about
racewalking, I assumed there weren't any.
The weekend after I got home, I flipped through the College of Marin's catalogue
and saw Jack's course. I didn't think it would be an established club and instead expected
a new group to be starting up. However, I was surprised to learn otherwise. I signed up
for the six-class session immediately and loved it from the beginning.
I can honestly say that racewalking has changed my life. For instance, it is a
challenge every time I put on a pair of shoes, the friends I have made are cherished, the
competition I enjoy so much is exhilarating, the guidance from Jack is phenomenal, and
the kindness and thoughtfiilness of Sue is lovely.
When I went to the first Saturday morning meet after classes had ended, I was in
for the surprise of my life. I remember walking down that bike path feeling amazed at
how fast everyone else was and how slow I was. I had arrived at 8:30 a.m. thinking I was
fairly fit and left an hour later knowing that 1 wasn't. I managed to drag myself home and
then collapsed on the floor napping on and off all day.
I amazed myself when I agreed a couple of months later to join the Sunday group
to walk up Mt. Tamalpais. Half an hour after we started, I wondered what I was doing to
myself It seemed like all the others had disappeared except for one woman who was also
fairly new. We stayed together and luckily made it up the mountain and back. The whole
time I kept reminding myself that I had felt this way on the bike path just a few weeks
earlier, and now I could walk the bike path and still do my Saturday chores. These days, I
can tackle the Sunday tour of the neighborhoods, or the Mt. Tam walk, and still get done
whatever I used to do before I started racewalking.
Best of all I feel healthy and ageless. How I wish I had learned of Jack's class
sooner. And the members of Marin Race Walkers are such great people. Everyone is kind
and thoughtful, and it seems like we all share similar philosophies. Jack and Sue have
brought together people who I hope to have the privilege of knowing for the rest of my
life.

9. story #21 - Dixie James, San Rafael .9,
Racewalking
Twelve years ago, racewalking wasn't even in my vocabulary. Now, it has
become part of my everyday Hfe. - ^
Racewalking entered my life at a time when I was in serious need. I was a very
unhappy person, experiencing conflict in my life with my job and the many unknowns
about the future of my daughter who was bom with Downs syndrome. I became very
tired of my perpetual sadness, and I wanted out. I knew I had to make a change. I began
jogging daily because it was the only exercise that I knew how to do. It didn't feel that
good nor was I that good at running. ,
One day I read a notice in the Marin Independent Journal that invited people out ;
to Blackies' Pasture to learn to racewalk. I thought to myself, I could learn that. I had
always walked everywhere. For many years my family didn't have a car, and so we
walked to the bus, to work, and to school. It seemed natural for me to turn to walking as a
sport.
Racewalking has served me well. The Marin Race Walkers club introduced me to
a talented coach who inspires me to be my best, using humor and praise, as well as
professional instruction. Racewalking has brought me friendships for which I am
grateful. These racewalking athletes have inspired and challenged me to W A L K THE
DISTANCE. It is because of them that I have made personal goals, such as entering a
variety of marathons, half marathons and competitive racewalks. They were doing it, and
they made me feel that I could do it, too.
I owe a lot to racewalking. I honestly believe it is the fountain of youth. I am 57-
years young, and I feel as strong and as fit as I did in college. More importantly, I feel
better about who I am and what I have accomplished through racewalking.
Thank you Coach Jack Bray and all of you racewalkers with whom I have
walked.

10. E d Lane with Shirley Dockstader, US National Masters Championships, Eugene,
OR-2000
E d Lane and Shirley Dockstader lead the Fifty Plus Race, Stanford, CA-2000

11. story #22 - E d Lane, Mill Valley
Wine, Women, Golf, and Racewalking
Why did I get involved in racewalking? It was because I got tired of carrying
Shirley's bags. Let me explain.
I was a runner who believed that racewalking could not give you a legitimate
workout; that is, until I tried it. Once I got into the sport, I soon realized that not only was
it an incredible aerobic workout, it was more enjoyable as your body didn't take the same
pounding that comes with jogging.
I'm a very disciplined person, so the conversion to racewalking was easy for me. I
still do some rurming, but my primary exercise now is racewalking. I enjoy following a
structured training program and seeing the results in my times and endurance. In terms of
health and enjoyment, I still get that exhilarating feeling when I ' m racewalking that I did
when I was a 12-year-old running.
This sport has also enriched my life with the support and camaraderie of my
fellow club members as well as the people we meet in national and international
competitions. We all seem to develop a high level of self-confidence that is naturally
rewarding. We have met wonderfiil people and look forward to meeting up with them
again and again.
M y interest in racewalking stays high with events like W A V A in Australia
coming up in 2001 and countless other local events to choose from. I must say that i f
carrying Shirley's bags got me out on the track, it was well worth it.
Racewalking is a great couple's sport that can be easily practiced when traveling.
We have racewalked in many different countries and climates and it is truly a fine way to
meet the locals and to explore the countryside. , , ^ ,

12. Before a Marin Race Walkers' club race
Left to right, Garland Murphy, Christi Elniff and
Ann Lee
HI
After a one hour postal race
Left to right, Doris Cassels, Derek Lee, Ann Lee
and Phyllis Abbate

13. story #23 - Ann Lee, Petaluma is
Racewalking and What It Has Done to My Life!
The impact of racewalking on my life goes far beyond what most people
experience in sport. Let me explain.
Six months after relocating to California from Ireland, I quite accidentally found
this wonderful pastime. Our first home in Marin was located near a bike path, and as I
had always enjoyed jogging I went out for a run after work most evenings. Very often,
this run helped me deal with the loneliness and realization that I was far from my home,
family, and friends.
On several occasions, I noticed a group of people on the bike path, not running,
not walking, but what were they doing? I also noticed a tall man who seemed to be
directing their movement. I mentioned this to my co-workers one day, and they told me it
was racewalking and that classes were held at the College of Marin. I signed up for those
classes, and from that very first class I was hooked. _ .,
I don't pretend to have understood the technique discussed and demonstrated at
that first class, but I certainly understood and felt the positive vibes emanating from our
instructor (that same tall man from the bike path). I looked forward so much to those
weekly classes, and each evening I was out on the bike path trying to get that hip
movement. Sometimes, in my frustration, I would go back to the house, change into my
jogging shoes, and go for a run. The need to do this became less and less as I began to
master that movement although I would not call it proper technique at that initial stage.
When I was eligible, I joined the Marin Race Walkers, and in this club I found the
friendship, enthusiasm, and positive energy I so desperately wanted to be part o f I soon
realized and loved the fact that I did not need to know it all. It was very much an ongoing
process with each coaching session, each practice out and back on that bike path session,
and each Sunday morning distance session serving as a learning experience and a striving
for that perfect technique.
M y disqualification in the 5 and 10-kilometer Nafional compefifions in 1996
reinforced my determination to get it right and I heel, toed, and rolled around my living
room that evening. M y continuing determination to perfect my technique is matched by
my love of racewalking and my gratitude to that wonderful and special coach. Jack Bray
(yes, the man on the bike path) and the wonderfiil friends I have made through
racewalking. They will probably never fully understand the huge part they have played
and continue to play in my duty to myself to being healthy and happy.

14. John Levinsohn with Dorothy Robarts
Alongi in Marin 5K Classic Awards Picnic, 1994
Photo by Lynn Montoya

15. Story #24 - John Levinsohn, Greenbrae
The Winner and Still Champion
When I think from time to time that I am one of the oldest members of Marin
Race Walkers, I am momentarily surprised. But then I ' m gratefiil because considering the
alternatives, this is a good state of affairs. It is said that an old man contains a younger
man who can't get out.
My more healthful lifestyle began when I started jogging in my 30's, and back
then this was so new that cars honked as they drove by. The benefits included a low heart
rate, reasonable weight control, and a feeling of well-being. The only negative aspect was
that after thirty years of jogging, the lateral meniscus of my left knee had worn out. There
was bone-to-bone contact, and jogging had become painful.
I was perplexed about what to do. Giving up jogging would cause me to lose all
the health benefits and particularly my sense of well-being. I didn't enjoy swimming, and
bicycling also hurt my knee. The prospect of gaining weight or eating less of the good
things that I liked was not appealing to me.
Then, one day, my daughter, Joanie, saw a notice in the sports page about
racewalking lessons being taught at Drake High School by Bill Ranney who was said to
be a fine coach, an excellent athlete, and an inspiring leader. I started my racewalking
career but sad to say. Bill succumbed to a genetically induced heart attack within a year.
Fortunately, there were others working with Bill-Jack Bray, for one-who took
up the baton and racewalked with it. To my astonishment, racewalking did not hurt my
knee, and I could walk longer distances than I had jogged. Better still, even with the
correct technique of a straight knee my bad knee seemed to become stronger. What an
exciting realization it was that I could continue aerobic exercise and maintain the benefits
that I had enjoyed from jogging.
There are some significant differences between my previous jogging regime and
my current conditioning program that are worth mentioning. For instance, when I jogged,
I went out alone or with my wife, and I was satisfied with 30-40 minutes a day as
suggested by Dr. Cooper in the Canadian Air Force Exercise newsletter. Stretching also
was not a conscious or important part of my program, and I had no interest in competing
or joining a group. M y 8-minute mile was the standard that I never tried to exceed, and I
had accepted that I would eventually run a slower mile as time passed.

16. Left to right-Masashi Noritake, John Nervetti and John Levinsohn
National Age Group Champions-National Masters Championships-2000

17. Now, I walk 6 days a week and 2 of those days are with the Marin Race Walkers.
On one of these days, I may walk up to 2 hours with a racewalker whose times compare
with mine. By talking and discussing racewalking and health, the time goes quickly, and
the distance soon disappears.
Technique and proper conditioning are integral aspects of racewalking. Friends "
ask what I mean when I say that I am going to have a walking lesson, not understanding
about the disciplined nature of racewalking. For example, working with my coach. Jack
Bray, helps me focus on warm-up and on improving my overall style.
Having never been a good "joiner," I now actually enjoy the interpersonal
dynamic of participating with the Marin Race Walkers on a group and individual level.
Focusing on racewalking and supporting other members in workouts and events have
been major factors in sustaining the enjoyment of my exercise program. Previously, the
bi-weekly visits to the gym had become so deadly dull that I couldn't wait to finish my
program there. . ^ - i ^ ^
An added element of this sport is competition. I am interested in how competing
in races works on the mind and the body. Never having been an athlete or having
competed as a runner, it was not my intention to compete as a racewalker. Perhaps
because races occurred and I was there or perhaps through Jack's encouragement, my
desire to participate with the group or to race with Herman Arrow, whatever the cause, I
find I enjoy competing.
- • ;i
hi my experience, there are 2 elements to competition. First, I compete with
myself. I want to improve my technique and the proof of accomplishment is walking
faster legally. Second, competing with other racers in my age group has become
acceptable to me, and the thrill of winning a medal or coming in ahead of other racers or
doing better than I did previously is very satisfying.
I believe the critical benefit for me has been the ability to overtake the
physiological slowdown that would be genetically correct for me as I age. I am convinced
that there is a therapeufic benefit to competition in this respect, and the bottom line is that
racewalking, in its entirety, allows the body to produce endorphins or whatever
combination of chemicals that are needed to improve and maintain physical and mental
health and especially during the later stages of life.
As well, the combinafion of the social interaction with the Marin Race Walkers,
the incentive of the NO-CRAP Grand Prix or the Alongi events (a major 5K race that is
held on the track in Kentfield and seminars, etc.), and the desire to improve potenfial all
seem to work towards achieving confinuing good health.

19. story #25 - Diana Limberis, San Anselmo
My Racewalking Experience
I have never been athletic. Given a choice between reading a book and taking a
walk, I'd choose the book. As I got older, I noticed the genetic tendencies of my family
for adult onset of diabetes, osteoporosis, colon cancer and obesity.
Last year, when I turned 43,1 decided it was time to change my habits. If medical
science could give us a long life, I'd rather mine be healthy and long instead of one
plagued with health issues that could prevent me from thinking and doing. I was also
tired of my aimual weight gain that caused me to feel uncomfortable and unattractive in
my clothing.
I had done numerous weight-loss programs such as Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, and
Weight Watchers, but they were without a solid exercise component and ineffective over
the long haul. I found myself feeling bad at some point in a program that was lacking the
exercise, and it seemed to me that the combination of drinking water, eating vegetables
and fruits, and exercising consistently facilitates weight loss so that people can feel good
while dieting.
Last year, I started working with a trainer on a weekly weight-lifting program. I
had already tried this for a short period a year or two earlier, but this time I decided I was
going to commit to a lifelong program. Because I liked my trainer and how I felt, the cost
and time of driving 80 miles each week to Santa Rosa and back was worth the effort. So,
I showed up every week. After 6 months of doing the training, I was happy with how
strong I felt. There were no more visits to the chiropractor because of neck or lower back
pain, and I had been getting adjustments for years.
Be that as it may, the weight wasn't coming off. This was mostly because of my
love for chocolate and the fact that I was unwilling to eliminate candy and cookies from
my diet. M y roommate had taken a racewalking course with Jack Bray, and I noticed how
much weight he was losing. I thought I'd try it to see i f I liked it.
Wow! Racewalking is great stuff, and fun too. You workout your whole body
using muscles that aren't exercised by weight lifting. Jack and Sue organized a club that
meets for workouts and competitions. Since July, I've been coming steadily to the
College of Marin on Saturday mornings, and I don't see myself ever wanting to quit. The
members, taking Jack's guidance and lead, are so supportive and encouraging.
I can see the improvement in my technique as I practice. I've also lost 15 pounds
(one jeans size), and on my muscular body that's a lot. I didn't gain weight, either, even
after spending 10 days with my family at Thanksgiving. Many thanks to the Marin Race
Walkers and walking. I ' m headed in the right direction of a healthier, happier life style.

20. Barbara Lowell leading a group
of walkers at The Redwoods

21. story #26 - Barbara Lowell, Kentfield
Walking Towards a New Life
It has taken me 15 years to get a motivated racewalking mindset. M y first ^
excitement over walking was aroused while attending a 1-week summit workshop in
Hawaii. One of the activities of our program was a fast 5-mile walk at sunrise. It was
such a great experience what with the early hour and magnificent setting, and since I am
fortunate to live close to the Corte Madera bike path I've been taking a daily morning
walk ever since. The benefits are many: a smile from a familiar face; time to contemplate
the day ahead, plan and be grateful; and I don't turn the heat up as high at home as my
motor is revved up!
I joined the Golden Gate Race Walkers many years ago and experienced my first
heady success as a rather fast walker. The multicolored ribbons with my walking times
on the back were a real source of pride. After several months, however, my interest
waned. I kept walking but not with the group. Being overweight has never been an issue
for me since my teen years, but now my weight began creeping up. I knew walking
would really tone my body and help me melt those pounds away.
Marin Race Walkers surfaced in my life, but my attendance was spotty. Everyone
seemed to know each other and most walked faster than me. I didn't feel I was a part of
the group. Then, Vitality Plus came along, and I joined the Board. These people seemed
really committed to walking. Jack Bray had many pithy, posifive sayings, and I became
more interested. I learned that there was a major racewalking competition in Brisbane in
2001 that coincided with me starting the next age category. Also, my daughter and son-
in-law would be living in Sydney then. Now, there was a goal. I thought, "Why not train
for the Brisbane races and then head off to Sydney to see my daughter?"
Having a purpose was what it took for me to get hooked. Now, my regular , •
attendance has resulted in faster times. In addition, the fellow racewalkers are always
encouraging, I've made more friends, and I ' m having great fim. Best of all, Jack is
throwing out shorter-term challenges that no longer seem as overwhelming. Thank you
coach for being so patient!

23. story #27 - Patricia McCaron, Larkspur
Ms. "Body Beautiful"
I arrived in Marin in the summer of 1985. On January 1, 1986,1 charged off to
Blackies' pasture in Tiburon, and as I walked along the track, I saw a little guy in a
yellow jumpsuit wearing a white hat (he looked to me to be about 80-years-old and 70
pounds). He was holding a sign that said, "Racewalkers" and as he saw me approaching,
he asked, "Are you a racewalker?" I said, "No, but I guess I can learn." Since I have
always been very physical, I said, "Sure, I'll do it! (At that time, good old Pat could do
anything and everything). , C
He put down his sign and showed me how to racewalk. We had lots of laughs
going up and down the path until about 14 other people showed up and joined in. I never
saw that many people again at Blackies at one time. Every Saturday morning I had fim
paying my $1 and doing 1 mile and then the 3 miles down to Tiburon and back. We
received a ribbon every Saturday, and I had more ribbons than I knew what to do with. It
was really fun!
In 1989, we were still going up and down the path, and Jack always told me how
good I looked, and coach Frank Alongi, called me "Body Beautiful." Hah! We had a
color picture in the Marin Independent Journal that year, and I was wearing flowers in
my hair. Boy, didn't we look young? Fifty-six and gorgeous!
That year, I couldn't believe I did a personal record; a 5K in 37 minutes plus. I
continued racewalking because I loved meeting all the good friends every Saturday
moming. When I had to move to San Rafael in 1991,1 was even inspired to drive all the
way to Tiburon to exercise at my favorite spot with my special friends. I couldn't wait to
get back there.
When I moved to Novato in 1992, Jack started the Marin Race Walkers and asked
me to join them at the College of Marin. As it was closer for me than Tiburon, I was
excited. I really got in shape and lost 10 pounds going up and down the Novato hills
every day. Racewalking practiced on a permanent basis changed my attitude and life style
and improved my overall health. After 8 years, it became a way of life.
In 1994,1 moved to Larkspur and tried harder to get the 5K back to my personal
record. This is a struggle for me because I just want to be the Artist! But it is a challenge
for me to be both. I also work out at the Jewish Community Center, swimming (my first
love), and biking, and I continue to walk everywhere. So, after 13 years, I hope I am
finally on the right track!

25. story # 28 - Eric Poulsen, Sebastopol
Jog/RunAValk to Health
Sometimes a seed is planted, and it takes years to germinate. In my case, my dad
was the Norwegian Junior Racewalking Champion in the late 1930s. I grew up on a ranch
leading a fairly active life, riding, hiking, and skiing. However, racewalking was learned
more through osmosis and horsing around with my Dad, so to speak, but the seed was
planted.
During high school and college, I was not that into sports and focused my
energies on getting a job. Three years after landing a software developer's job (a.k.a. a
"real" desk job with long days, stress, and no physical activity),. I had ballooned to 214
lbs and was in bad shape. Luckily my sister moved in with me when she was in between
apartments. One day, she dragged me outside, and we jogged and walked for a mile. It
was hard to break my sedentary habits, but she kept on me for several weeks. Over time, I
began to enjoy these outings; we would chat or just sightsee while getting exercise.
After these jogs, I began to feel better both mentally and physically. The exercise
was channeling work-stress away, and with less stress, more focus came. At work I
jogged during lunch, and soon found that I was more refreshed for tackling the afternoon.
Feeling better also led to increased self-esteem. I began to eat healthier, and after 2 years
I had lost 64 pounds without dieting and just by jogging 5 miles a day.
Needless to say, jogging and eventually running became an important part of my
life. After those first few weeks, I never thought of running as a chore but simply as
something to enjoy. It has never over-shadowed my work or family, but was (and still is)
something I make time for. During many difficult events in my life (taking care of my
dad with my mom as he unsuccessfully fought cancer), running has provided a
foundation to renew myself both physically and emotionally.
Through what I label a normal progression, I began to race in the 5K, lOK, half-
marathon, and marathon races. Aside from the good feeling of accomplishment, I enjoyed
meeting people who shared the same interests, but who were from such diverse
backgrounds. This camaraderie added a new dimension to my life. Races are a fiin
diversion, keep you in touch with the community, and keep you honest. And there is
always someone faster-and usually older-which is a wonderful endorsement for
walking, jogging, running, and longevity. ' •
Races aside, I gravitated to longer outings simply because I enjoyed the activity.
This desire naturally evolved into ultra-distances (anything over a marathon, typically
50K, 50 miles, lOOK, 100 miles, and eventually the maximum distance possible in 24
hours). To run or even jog that distance, most people begin to mix in walking. The
formula was to run for 25 minutes and walk for 5 minutes, or, to run the flats and down
the hills and walk up the hills. The "run" for most of us becomes a shuffle, which
naturally lends itself to walking.

27. For several years of ultra-running, my walking portion was very slow and
inefficient. Then, finally, I remembered rudimentary racewalking steps I learned from my
dad. Also, joining the Marin Race Walkers gave me the support and improved technique
that I was lacking. I find racewalking more enjoyable than running now. A moderate
racewalking pace compared with running exposes the body to less oxygen deprivation
and less physical stress on the body. I can actually go longer distances now with less
physical discomfort and more enjoyment.
Editor's note: Eric Poulsen recently completed 100 miles in under 24 hours, becoming
the 55"^ American Centurion since the 1890's. He did this incredible feat in terrible
conditions of sleet and snow, September, 2000, in Colorado.
Jack Bray, Eric Poulsen and Shoja Torabian at the Sierra High 5 K Race
Spring, 2000-Age Group winners in the first race of the
NO-CRAP G R A N D P R I X I I I

28. Dorthy Robarts with Frank Alongi
Alongi in Marin 5K Award Ceremony
Photo by Lynn Montoya

29. Story #29 - Dorothy Robarts, Mill Valley (includes an article by Sue Blochwitz and
an interview by Elaine Ward)
World Champion and Role Model
When I was 83,1 took a good look at myself, and I didn't like what I saw. I told
myself, "Dorothy, you can either sit here in your rocking chair feeling miserable and
sorry for yourself, and rust away; or you can get up, get out, and find something to make
yourself feel better."
A n article in the Marin Independent Journal with the large picture of Jack Bray
caught my eye. I knew that was for me, and I called the number listed there. I spoke with
Jack Bray, and he suggested that since I couldn't make it to the Wednesday night classes
that I should come to the College of Marin classes in September.
I went to the classes, and I could hardly walk 200 yards without resting. But Jack
was very encouraging. He told me to just go to the next tree, and so that's what I did. I
finished the class and joined the Marin Race Walkers for Saturday moming workouts. A t
first, I could only make it to the bridge and back. But, because everyone was so
encouraging, I never gave up. I kept going to the workouts, and not only was I
determined to make it out to Bon Air Road and back like everyone else, I was determined
to walk faster.
Then, I did my first race (1 -hour postal) on the track with only 3 months of
racewalking! I found out the next spring that I was 2"'* in my age group. That same
spring. Jack started talking to me seriously about going to the Nationals (USAT& F
National Masters Championships for people 35 and over). He said that I was a champion
and suggested that I start practicing for the 5K. I was already doing 2 miles because I
could walk the whole bike path. Now all I needed to do was to walk 4 times around the
track after I finished the bike path.
-
Both Jack & Sue urged me to do the first fun 5K-club race of the year. I was
afraid and fiiU of excuses-I didn't want to be last, I didn't want to make anyone wait,
etc., but they wouldn't accept any excuses. I needn't have worried. Everyone applauded
my last 2 laps and cheered for me when I finally finished.
Then they suggested that I should go to Stanford and do the Fifty-Plus 5K race. I
came in first and received special recognition for being 80+ as well as winning a special
t-shirt. Imagine, me, who had never been an athlete and getting to stand on the platform
with applause for something I had accomplished. It was great to be part of a wonderful
group and to get acknowledged for what I had achieved.

30. Liesbeth Matthieu, Jackie Grant, Dorothy Robarts and Virginia Fong
At the Fifty Plus 5 Kilometer race, Stanford Stadium-1993
Jack Bray, Dorothy Robarts, and John Levinsohn
At the College of Marin track after a
5 Kilometer race April 1993

31. {Marin Race Walkers Newsletter #7, April 1993-Dorothy wrote, " I would
encourage anyone who is 75 years and over and still active to start racewalking. It is a
great overall exercise for the body. I would like to see all people of maturity out here with
me. Racewalking is a skill and an accomplishment to learn at any age. It's mind
expanding to get the body moving. I believe it is the up and coming aerobic exercise.
There is no pounding on the joints, and you can go at any speed that you like. Come and
join the Marin Race Walkers. Take advantage of the opportunity to work out with others.'
I especially enjoy the tai chi cool-downs and the circle closing.") ,
Then Jack informed me that I was going to the Nationals. I had no idea what he
meant, but I trained and trained and ended up in Provo, Utah, on the track, having done
all that was necessary to compete. I signed the declaration the night before, showed up
more than an hour before the race, and checked in. They led us to the starting line, and
the gun went off before the sun had even come over the mountains. Off I went, worrying
about a thousand details such as the judges, my technique, and my lack of speed.
And then of all things, the sun came over the mountains blinding me. I yelled to
Sue, "What can I do? Can you give me my sunglasses? I can't see anything!" I threw my
glasses at her during the next lap, and with Elaine Ward's okay, she passed me my
sunglasses so that I could see again. It might have been partly the altitude but I was on
cloud nine. I got my USAT&F National Masters Champion patch, my custom made gold
medal, and an official photo of me on the winners stand. Suffice it to say that I was
hooked.
{Marin Race Walkers Newsletter #12, September 1993~Dorothy Robarts, gold
medal winner, wants to thank everyone in the club for their tremendous support and for
the encouragement she received from everyone to start racewalking, to keep going, and to
keep improving her skills and speed. She especially enjoyed the support and friendliness
of everyone connected with this national event. Her 5K time was 48:14.82.)
1994 was the year we went to Eugene, Oregon for the USAT&F Nafional Masters
Championships. Now that I knew about training, I did a lot of it and took advantage of
every opportunity that Marin Race Walkers offered. The workouts included Saturday and
Sunday mornings, Wednesday nights, and Thursday night speed workouts.
I remember one Thursday evening at the speed workouts, my coach Jack Bray
imitated how I was walking and told me that I needed to improve both my technique and
speed. All the women held their breath; they thought it was terribly disrespectful to talk
to an old lady like me that way. I just laughed and laughed because he looked so funny,
and i f I did look like that I did need to improve. That is the thing I love about the Marin
Race Walkers. I was one of the girls and was not set apart because of my age. We were
all in this together trying to improve and to have fun, working, laughing, and talking
together.

32. Left to right-Lani LeBlanc, Dorothy Robarts, Virginia Fong and Sue Blochwitz
After the USATF National Masters Championships in Eugene, OR-1984
Dorothy Robarts in Eugene, O R

33. Eugene was special. The dorms were great as there were athletes from around the
nation who were all so friendly. We had fun riding around in the tuna boat (a rented
Lincoln town car), talking and eating. I don't believe I ever laughed as much in one
weekend! {Marin Race Walkers Newsletter #24, September 1994~Dorothy Robarts,
45:04.12-gold medal in her age group.)
In 1995, we were very busy. We all had to start training very early as the National
Masters Indoor 3K Championship was held in Reno, Nevada on February 24. It was a
first for all of us because we had never raced inside before on a wooden board track high
off the surface of the Stock Pavilion. It was at altitude and hot and dry inside. I felt like
peg leg Pete after the race from trying to stay on the boards so as not to fall off into the
floor down below. . _
When I was told I might have set a world record after the race was over, I
bounced up and down like a child, and my exuberance continued throughout the
celebrafion dirmer our club held that evening. (Editor's note-Dorothy Robarts is the only
one who didn't complain about the conditions at this indoor race. After winning, she
bounced up and down saying that she ought to behave in a more dignified way. But we
said there was no reason as it was not every day that you set a world record.)
(In an article entifled Amazing Seniors Show True Grit for the local Pacific Sun
newspaper, Huey Johnson talks about Dorothy Robarts and her experiences. He said, " A t
a dinner celebrating Dorothy Robarts' world record, she talked about the race and life in
general. She started walking at 83.. .determined to find her own path. This was a chapter
in life that she hadn't yet experienced—to be a competitive athlete and now a world
champion record holder. It is important, she told me, not to let advancing age suck you
into the fear of the unknown, and to discipline yourself to seek and share joy rather than
end your days sharing sorrow...")
After the Reno competitions, Jack told me that because I had done so well at the
national level, it was now time for me to go to the W A V A World Championships being
held in Buffalo, New York. He added that even if I had to stay at the dorms, I should
make every attempt to get there. I was on a fixed income and had to scrimp and save, but
I did make it. Elaine, my employer, helped a little bit, but it was mostly my own money
that got me there.
It was incredibly hot for the most part, but on the moming of my race there was a
light mist falling that got on my glasses, and I really couldn't see much. There was a
woman who I thought was ahead of me when in fact I found out afterwards that I had
lapped her. I won the gold medal in the 5K and set another world record with a time o f
44:43.85.

34. Dorothy Robarts and Jack Bray with W A V A Championship
Buffalo, N.Y. medals
World Age Group Champion Dorothy Robarts racewalking in
5 K , Buffalo,N.Y.-1995

35. {Marin Race Walkers Newsletter #35, August 1995~Dorothy Robarts remarks, " I
was awestruck to be on the winner's platform; it was so exciting to be there. I thank Jack
Bray and all the other club members for their encouragement. I laugh when I think about
just going to that tree the first time. What a short distance it was and how far I have come
in just two years. Looking at our club members, it is notable how well Jack has trained us
and how excellent our technique looks. I'm impressed with the friendliness and courage
of the athletes from all over the world, and, particularly, the courage of the blind woman
who could have won gold if her guide would have run faster. . .
It was an experience of a lifetime~a mini World Olympic Games. It was great to
march in the opening ceremonies and represent USA. M y advice is to keep walking; race
walk i f you can for the technique, the body/mind connection, and the training that will
keep you young. Naturally I want to go to South Africa in 2 years and race an even better
time.")
Sue Blochwitz's Article about Dorothy Robarts. ''
There was an article in the Marin Independent Journal, July 28, 1995 with the
headlines, Robarts Sets World Record! There was also an article in the Ark, August 23,
1995 titled Robarts Racewalks to a Gold Medal in which Dorothy Robarts of Mill Valley
was quoted as saying, " I have a message I'd like to get across to the older members of the
community. Get out of those chairs and walk out the front door and keep walking." So
says someone who knows what she's talking about. The article went on to acknowledge
Dorothy who was 85 and that she had just won a gold medal in racewalking at the 1 Ith
World Veterans Athletic Championships held in Buffalo, New York on July 2.
Although many of the competitors in the W A V A Championships are former
Olympians, Dorothy Robarts has no history as an athlete other than the entire running
around she did raising two children. She took up racewalking because of her arthritis
pain, but with the regular exercise of this sport, her discomfort had almost all gone.
Because she had such energy and vitality, she wanted others her age to experience
this as well. So, she encouraged her sedentary peers to get out of their comfort zone and
to walk. Her philosophy is that although your muscles may hurt the next day they hurt
even more just sitting there. There is a marvelous photo of Dorothy Robarts on page 63 in
Growing Old is Not For Sissies II: Portraits of Senior Athletes by Etta Clark published
by Pomegranate Artbooks in 1995.
(Dorothy's story continues)
1996 was a quiet year after all the excitement of the W A V A Championships. We
had club workouts, club races, and 1-hour postals. Frank Alongi was here for the great
Alongi on Marin Memorial Day Weekend with 5K races and seminars, semi-privates
lessons, dinners, and the award picnic. I always sign up for a semi-private lesson with
Coach Alongi. He always fine-tunes everything that Jack Bray has been telling me all
year that with my stubborn Scots brain I don't hear until it is repeated many times.

37. We went to the USAF&F National Masters in Spokane, Washington. I won a gold
medal along with Jack Bray and Lani LeBlanc. M y 5K time was 44:47.39. While at
Spokane, I was interviewed by Elaine Ward of the North American Racewalking
Foundation. :.
Elaine Ward's Interview of Dorothy Robarts;
E: How does it make your body feel when you are racewalking, Dorothy?
D: It makes my body feel strong. I was never particularly competitive and always let
others go first—even my children. I was at a party one day when someone asked me what
I had done with my life to which I replied that I had raised two sons. In the back of my
mind, I thought that I could achieve more and that in no way was I going to rust out. I
said to myself that I was free and could choose life or illness and death. And so I chose
life. Racewalking gets my blood circulating, and it has relieved my arthritis and pain. It
might only be in remission and will return i f I stop racewalking, but I am going to keep
going and not let that happen. -
E: Are you naturally competitive? - *
D: I don't think I was bom competitive. I was the type of child who wanted to make
others happy. Now, all of a sudden I am in my 80's, and I have found another part of my
personality that wants to nurture me. I still want to help and encourage others. However,
people now see me taking care of myself which gets interpreted as being "competitive".
That's okay. They just aren't used to seeing me in this light. At first I didn't have any
encouragement as none of my friends were accepting. But with the support of Jack and
the Marin Race Walkers, I feel like I have started a whole new adventure. Racewalking,
as well as the association I have with other racewalkers, has done this for me. I feel like I
found a pot of gold, and I won't allow anything to come between that pot of gold and me.
E: I f you are trying to recmit someone into racewalking, what do you say? ,,
D: I would like women who think old because of their chronological age to think positive
thoughts. You will always find people who dwell on the negatives, but moaning about
pain is no way to get attention. You have to get out of the pain thing and say to yourself
that you are going to take the helping step today that you didn't take yesterday. You have
to take one step at a time on any road to recovery. And the bottom line, for goodness
sake, is to get out of the chair and to stop complaining about all your aches and pains.
E: How do you convince people that they can help themselves?
D: I tell them it's a choice. The key is to think one step at a time no matter what that step
is, and the goal is to move out of the chair and get active.

38. Dorothy Robarts, Jack Bray, Shoja Torabian-Durban, South Africa
Dorothy Robarts buying camel ride for Jack Bray-South Africa

39. (Dorothy's story continues)
1997 was another exciting year. Once again, there was a 3K Indoor Championship
in Reno, Nevada. I set another unofficial world record with a time of 27:41. At the Fifty
Plus 5K at Stanford this year, my time was 45:59, and so I was in shape. M y time at the
Alongi in Marin 5K on May 25, 1997 was 44:37, and of course I won gold at all three
events. I also went to the Senior Games in Sacramento, and my 5K time there was 44:39.
Next, it was onto the W A V A Championships in South Africa. It was a struggle to
get the money together, but I managed and enjoyed every moment of being in a new
country. Experience is something that you can't buy, and so I was constantly sightseeing
and soaking up the thrill of the wild game parks and the colorful life on the streets and in
shops. ,
I bought a camel ride for Jack even though Sue didn't want him anywhere near a
camel after his experience with a monkey scratch. It made me laugh to see him get so
much fun from riding a camel. It's usually not the things we do that we regret; it's those
things we don't do and wish we had. So, enjoy your life; do it now! Have fun and laugh.
Challenge yourself to try new things because the worst that could happen is that you
might lose, or not come in first, or make a mistake.
Well, it happened to me. I finally came in second in a race. I had to settle for a
silver medal. My time was 44:30.8, but the Swedish competitor's time was 41:52.5 (her
name is Margit Lindgren, and rumor has it that she cross-country skis every winter). I am
still a champion, but just not a gold one. There is always another race and I will catch her
yet! Back in San Jose at the USAT&F National Masters Championships, I retained my
National gold medal status, but since it was so close to the South African Championships
my time was a slow 46:21.
1998 was another year of workouts, breakfasts, parties, and races. This year the
USAT&F Nationals were in Orono, Maine. In my race, there was a woman ahead of me,
but she then disappeared. No one told me she had been disqualified for improper
technique! I won a gold medal in my age group with a 5K time of 45:57.64. Once again,
it was an invigoradng time, and the dorms on the University of Maine campus proved to
be much fun.
v-y • *• . .
Sue Blochwitz's article (continued)
In 1999, Dorothy had planned to go to the W A V A Championships in Gateshead,
England. She was the USAT&F Walker of the Year in her age category from 1993-1998
and National Masters champion in her age group for all of those years and winner of the
1-hour postal too. She only lost one race in all her time competing. We will sorely miss
Dorothy, but her spirit lives on. Jack and I were deeply honored to count Dorothy as our
friend. The following is an excerpt from a tribute to Dorothy Robarts, which appeared in
the Marin Race Walkers Newsletter #85, November 1999.

40. Dorothy Robarts with Margit Lindgren after their 5 K race
W A V A Championships, Durban, South Africa
Dorothy Robarts Celebrating Her Victory Lap

41. Just 2 weeks before she died, Dorothy insisted on being taken out to the track to
racewalk with Jack and me. She had refused her pain medicine so she could be fully
present, and I don't believe she had an ounce of pain while she was with us. She was
waiting when we arrived, and we were off like truant school children giggling all the way
to the track. Dorothy was glowing the whole time. I think she was afraid that her illness
had imprisoned her and that she'd never get back out to the track.
Grinning like a little child, and practically jumping up and down like Dorothy
does when she's excited, she made it to the 1st 100-meters. I thought that this was all she
could do, and it was more than enough. But no, after a short rest she headed off to the
200-meter marker. A t that point, Dorothy had to rest again, but she was still going strong.
She kept telling us that she had to finish, and so we headed off to the home stretch. She
really had to rest there, but she knew that she hadn't done the 400 meters yet. We pointed
to the finish line, and off she went, determined to be that champion that she is.
It sounds heart wrenching, but it was a rare privilege to be there with Dorothy as
she struggled to complete her last 400 meters. We told her we would take her around the
track on her birthday too, but it was not to be. Dorothy's spirit was incredible; she never
complained, but kept celebrating the moment, and it was an incredible victory of spirit
that was unlike anything I've ever seen before. - - . ^
The tears are still thick, but my heart is happy because I know that with the three
of us working together, Dorothy was given seven years of quality life, and a quality that
cannot be bought; it has to be earned. Her laughter will stay with me always, from the
first tree, to the 1 st National in Provo, to the hot World Games in Buffalo where she
became a World Champion, to her adventures in South Africa, to leapfrogging up to
Phoenix Lake, to the first church, and, most significantly, to her last 400 meters.
She would want me to thank each and every one of you for your support, cards
and friendship. Her motto was, " I f I can do it, you can do it." She was never an athlete
undl she took up racewalking. And, it was the joy of her life to be accepted as one of the
girls and to not be separated because of her age.
Remember, it's better to wear out, than rust out! You don't know what you can do
until you try. I will miss my walking buddy and role model. There is no better tribute
than to say a person lived his/her life to the max. Dorothy Robarts did that. She is an
inspiration to those who don't feel like champions, to those who don't believe they can
win a race because they're too slow, and to those who don't feel like an athlete-pick
your excuse. She was always learning, always growing, and a role model of successfiil
maturation. Even on her exit from this world stage, she left us laughing as she went and
she said in comfort to us and her sons, " I ' m off to more adventures."

43. story #30 - Bob and Terri Rose, Novato
Boomers Racewalk too
Bob Rose: I started racewalking classes because my wife signed me up. I am now
grateful as my business had constricted my physical exercise, and I had gained weight.
This sport was a good way for me to lose weight as well as to improve my overall health,
hi addition, both my wife and I enjoyed the class and liked the feeling we got from a
racewalking workout
I used to look at retirement as a time of immobility, believing that elders wouldn't
be able to get around very well by then. But seeing some of the Marin Race Walkers who
are 10 or 20 years older than me and yet faster, shows me that retirement age can be a
time when you can do what you please and still feel good doing it. I give many thanks to
my wife for getting us to that class and to Jack Bray for his superior coaching skills and
encouragement.
Terri Rose: I had read an article about racewalking and Jack Bray many years
ago. I always wanted to take his class, but due to my work schedule I was unable to do
so. Finally, my schedule allowed me to take the racewalking class, and I encouraged my
husband and daughter-in-law to take the class along with me, which they did. From the
moment the class started, we all knew that racewalking would become a part of our lives
and make huge deposits in our "health account." Jack Bray's uplifting "can-do" attitude
was a major factor in this feeling.
hi regards to my history, I was always thin and in optimal health and fitness, but
over the past seven years I had gradually gained weight and began losing my fit firm
body. I had moved to Marin from a small town in Northern California, and living in a
small town afforded me much more leisure time to exercise. However, then I moved to
commute land and started working long hours and spending many hours sitting in my car
driving back and forth to work.
I joined many gyms and at the same fime bought many pieces of exercise
equipment. Nevertheless, working out at home was difficult due to the many phone calls,
doorbells, and family interruptions. As well, going to the gym involved commuting and
taking more time out of my day, and I eventually stopped going.
Fitting racewalking into your daily schedule is easy because you can do it
anywhere and at anytime. For example, you can racewalk at the track, on your lunch
hour, in your neighborhood, or on vacation, etc. Best of all, I know the weight will come
off, and I won't have to spend my retirement years hiding out in the house because I can't
move around or I don't like how I look.
Also, being connected to this club provides me with all the support necessary to
sustain my interest in racewalking. I know that when I'm feeling resistant and
unmotivated, a call to Jack gives me the encouragement I need to keep going. Likewise, I
never have to walk alone if I don't want to because the Marin Race Walkers is composed
of a great group of people at all levels to racewalk with. After many years of searching, I
have finally found the perfect exercise and a wonderful group to walk with.

44. Esther Beime, Dawn McKay and Jim Scheller
in the stands awaiting the start of a club 5K race
i

45. story #31 - Dr. James Scheller, Larkspur
Dr. Jim's Rx
I began my racewalking experience/career in the late winter of 1997. A t that time,
I had joined the Leukemia Society's, Team in Training Program and started training for .
my first marathon to be held in Vancouver, British Columbia in May. M y preparation
was more than adequate because I took great pleasure in passing tired runners during the
last 6 miles of the marathon. As well, I racewalked the last 5 miles at a faster pace than I
did the first five. When I crossed the finish line, I felt I still had another 4 to 5 miles left:
in me.
For whatever reason, I stopped racewalking after my marathon experience. M y
weight increased, and all the aches and pain I had experienced before my training began
to creep back into my body (knees, back, etc.). It wasn't until 9 months later that I got
back into racewalking, only this time I was taking a class that enthusiastically trained me
in a specific and detailed technique.
I learned that racewalking was indeed a mental/intellectual sport and in more
ways than one. For example, I began to "mentally" plan when I would go out to
racewalk, where I would go, and for how long. More importantly, when I was
racewalking, I would mentally scan my body checking for technique and form.
Racewalking has become a form of moving meditation; it is a wonderfiil mental exercise
I engage in at the same time I am exercising my body.
As I began racewalking on a regular basis—classes on Saturday, a lOK racewalk
on Sunday, and individual times during the week—my health improved: The pain was
gone in my neck, my right knee, and my lower back; my weight dropped to where I
wanted it; my good cholesterol went off the scale of normal, and my "bad" cholesterol
and triglycerides plummeted.
The most significant health benefit occurred when the flu virus overwhelmed me
in late January 1999, and I mean overwhelmed! For the first time in 40 years, I was flat
out in bed for 2 days. I was gone; live or die, I did not care. In fact, I already thought I
was half dead. But miracles happen, and I recovered in only three days. Other flu victims
around me took 2 to 3 weeks to get over their bout. Just imagine being flat on your back
on Tuesday moming and then being able to do what you want on Friday. Clearly,
racewalking had strengthened my immune system.
Not only has racewalking had an impact on my physiology by strengthening my
immune system and my muscles that protect my joints, it has also helped me to get
focused on my goals. A goal or race in this sport can be the 5K, lOK, or half-marathon,
for instance. I've leamed what my natural distance is, what my preferred distance is,
which race I like best, and what distances suit me.

47. In addition, I've leamed that different race lengths require different physical
exertion and attitudes, which is not unlike life in general. As we all know, not every
challenge in life is the 5K race or the half-marathon. Through experience, I found my
comfortable distance at the half-marathon. What challenges me now is the 50K race. I've
leamed to reach for that and to stretch (pun intended) in that direction. So, with my head
up, chin relaxed, smile in place, and knees straight, I hope to reach that place in the year
2001.
Doris Cassels and Jim Scheller celebrating their half marathon