Grissom Airmen to participate in Air Force Marathon Published Sept. 15, 2006 By SrA Mark Orders-Woempner 434th ARW Public Affairs GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind -- The starting gun blasts as the mass of runners and walkers make their way down the road, only 26.2 miles of road to go. This is a likely scene for two of Grissom's Airmen who will be participating in the 10th Annual Air Force Marathon held at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, September 16th. One of these Airmen, Master Sgt. Keith McAndrews, 434th Maintenance Group jet engine inspector, said he decided to run this race because he saw it as a challenge. Running with Sergeant Andrews is Tech. Sgt. Steve Edington, 434th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. "I was looking around for something to get into, and I thought this is really a neat thing to do after seeing it when I was at Wright-Patt during the Grissom's runway remodeling project," said Sergeant Edington. "I thought it would be a great thing to participate in, so I signed up in June and have been training ever since." After having an ACL replaced 12 years ago, Sergeant McAndrews said he needed to find an exercise that wasn't hard on his legs and joints. Like Sergeant Edington, Sergeant Andrews also said he got started in long distance walking while he was TDY. "After September 11th, when we were activated to Hawaii, I started and exercise program," he said. "I walked a path that went from Hickam [Air Force Base] to Pearl Harbor." Both Airmen said training for and participating in marathons can be a great team building experience. "I enjoy the camaraderie," stated Sergeant McAndrews. "All the runners and walkers are encouraging and push me on." The training is also great exercise that fits in with the Air Force Fit to Fight program, he stated. "I train two days during the week and one day during the weekend, which is my long walk," said Sergeant McAndrews. "For me, it's a challenge, but I enjoy it." Sergeant Edington also stated that he enjoys the benefits that come from training for marathons. "It's something I want to do now, because I can see a difference in myself," he said. "I don't feel as run down in the mornings." Both Airmen recommend this type of exercise for anyone looking to stay in shape, but they emphasized that those starting out need to pay special attention to their body when training. "Like any physical fitness program, it's going to help you out as long as you make sure you listen to your body," said Sergeant Edington. "Listen to your body, especially if you're over 40; if you need two days rest instead of one, take the time you need off," stated Sergeant McAndrews, who added that it helps to have a person who is more experienced help you learn the techniques. Sergeant McAndrews learned his techniques through a local running club. "About a year ago, I joined a running and walking club," he said. "I got a video from a person in my club, and I studied the techniques in the video and trained with him." From that video and those he trained with, Sergeant McAndrews said he learned a running technique that keeps his feet in constant contact with the ground while his elbows stay at a 90 degree angle. He also said that it takes a lot of time and dedication to prepare for such long and strenuous events. "Over the years in preparing for marathons, I have found it takes lots of time and dedication to do this," he stated. "The most important thing I have learned is to make the training fit your schedule." Those wanting to participate in a marathon should make time to train three days a week to be in good shape, said Sergeant McAndrews, who added that those wishing to start participating in similar activities are free to contact him to learn how to start. To learn more about the Air Force Marathon, visit www.usafmarathon.com.
