This morning we joined about 100 runners and participated in a trail race called the Jackrabbit Classic.
Taking place in the beautiful Franklin Mountains State Park, on the outskirts of El Paso, there were two distances, 8.5 miles and 4.1 miles.
"Encouragement is an immediate smile-producer." This aphorism by Sri Chinmoy, Peace Run founder, adorned the back of the official race t-shirt.
Both courses began together and were beautiful trails through the very scenic high desert mountains.
Most of the first mile was on paved road before we headed off onto the trails.
Harita is all smiles have conquered a brutal mile long incline to get to the finish.
Arpan makes his way to the finish accompanied by Luis Martinez from Mexico who we had met the day before at the Tiger Dash 5 km Race.
Salil was relieved to cross the finish line.
Antana finished strongly the 8.5 mile race.
Harita got second place overall female.
Antana won her age group in the 8.5 mile race and Nastya won her age group in the 4.1 mile age group.
Arpan won his age group and Salil got second. Everyone's a winner!!!
The race organizers very kindly gave us time to share some Peace Run ideas and ideals.
We presented a certificate of appreciation to the organizers. Mark Dorian on the far right is the race founder and it was his encouragement and inspiration that we come to El Paso.
Thank you Mark for a wonderful visit to El Paso and hopefully the first of many.
We passed the torch around and everyone wanted to get a photo.
Well done everyone and thank you to the race organizers and participants.
We had a lovely meal with Mark and Helen at their beautiful home. All gratitude to you both for making our visit so memorable, inspiring and enriching.
