gritty city track club: With A Little Help From My Grits

When I was asked by our President, John Burgos, to volunteer for the LA River Run, I was told I was going to be in charge of ONE parking lot. I thought, "that will be easy." My volunteer assignment evolved from supervising ONE parking lot to coordinating the parking logistics for the ENTIRE race! Like a True Grit, I took the challenge and had fun with it. To assist our home store, A Runner's Circle, with their first race, was very rewarding. It was great to see the pleased looks from the race participants and organizers alike. For the majority of the racers, it was their first race. Even the Burgos Family (John's Parents) took part in their first 5K.

What was even more rewarding was the efforts of our Gritty volunteers. Our volunteers were instrumental in making the race a success. A special thank you goes out to Pureza Bacor (Volunteer and Racer), Brenda Bonnett, Annie Fu, Colleen Hamman, Joe Razo, Brian Reitz, Janet Uribe and Ann Wilson. Each of them came out before the Sun came up with smiling faces and boundless energy.

Our sport is inherently a selfish sport. We have to be selfish to dedicate many hours to train, race and rest. However, the Gritty City does not sheepishly fall in line with what is typical of our sport. I was truly touched to experience the selflessness of our running club. It really says something when you have a group of individuals who willingly sacrifice their free time, sleep and comfort without expecting something in return.

Maybe the best way to express it should be by song. So, cue Ringo Starr . . . I Get By With A Little Help From My Grits!

Stay Gritty.