The men's team celebrated the white sands and clear water of the Gulf Coast. It will be the last time near a great body of water until the team reaches the Pacific Ocean in San Diego.
The night before we saw a pod of dolphins traveling West very close to the shore (behind where Arpan's head is in this photo).
We started our day being greeted by Mayor Mike Anderson who led the morning team out of the hotel.
We were accommodated once again by the Best Western Fort Walton Beachfront Hotel, which has an incredible white sand beach and a really retro lobby. The hotel has kept a tradition of hosting the runners and we always look forward to this part of the Run! Thanks BWFWBFH!
A reporter from the Northwest Florida Daily News came out to cover the Run.
Donna Harris, owner of Run With It sports store, is an avid runner and Peace Run enthusiast.
Saranyu is a veterenarian in Australia, and we joked that she was dropping off her resume for a job here in sunny Florida.
This 4-mile bridge had to be covered in one stretch.
The Run visitied the Montessori School of Pensacola "MSP" which is comprised of elementary and middle school kids.
Gustavo from Brazil spontaneously jumped in to carry the torch to MSP.
A gentle giant hides while the kids file into the assembly.
Pierre finds a new backpack.
An attentive and enthusiastic bunch!
Kids guess nationalities: AUSTRALIA!
Skits demonstrate peace and "non-peace".
A sad runner doesn't get any food -- not peace!
Torches created by the Learning Gate Middle School in Lutz, Florida, were shared with the kids at MSP.
Bowie (age 8) and Alex (age 4) graciously receive torches.
All aboard the Peace Train!
Empress!
Ryan runs with art!
Keeping kids behind the lead torch is always a challenge -- this time it worked out well!
Leaving Florida and entering "Sweet Home Alabama".
John Underwood of Gulf Coast Media came out to cover the Run.
Puroga saunters a bit off course.
Arpan runs through the majestic array of flags at a veterans memorial.
The mens running team ended the day by offering their heartfelt gratitude to everyone at the Holiday Inn in downtown Mobile, Alabama. The kindness, support and encouragement of the hotel staff was much appreciated. Kali from the front desk holds the torch.
