Returning to the blue track in Des Moines

((Disclaimer...the following may be sensitive subject matter and those with weak stomachs probably should jump to picture #2)) Before each race on the track or after competing on a cross country course, Brooke has been known to throw up. And not just once (per event), but multiple times (per event). We have tried all kinds of pre-race diets and are on the last option...NOT eating ANYTHING!! Therefore, her race day diet is pretty small & very bland but somehow she still finds a way to up-chuck. This picture is her waiting for the baton in the 4x800 and she had just stepped one foot off the track to retch and dry heave a few times. We used to think it was a weakness. Now we see it as her "gettin' her game face on"... You know. The glass is half full, not empty...right?

"Is she smiling?" We talked this over as we watched/cheered her on. I think she is! She does love to run. This was her first race of the afternoon (second leg of the 4x800) and it was sunny but very windy. With a cleaned out GI, she ran like the wind...beautiful to watch. Brings tear to my eyes as I see her float over the track. Using God's given talents is your gift to God...and your parents, family, friends, and strangers. So graceful!

At the completion of the 4x800, the team of 4 ladies gathered together to help the anchor catch her breath. Such a great group of girls and their families! We are so fortunate to be a part of this Crusader team. We are also so fortunate to WIN with this Crusader team!

Abby Wostoupal, Lindsay Joyce, B and Lauren Graves...the winning 4x800 team in our District. Way 2 go!! On 2 state!!

I had to include this last picture because it is, what it is. The LAST picture...no, my camera battery didn't die (I had that thing charging for days before the meet). It is the last picture because the race was so close and intense that I completely forgot I was holding a camera, let alone planning to take pictures! In the far distance you can see B coming down the stretch. And that's right...girl's got everyone behind her! She ran a 61 split and was crushed because her goal for the year was to run a 60 (or less!). We did not run the best 4x400 and so she hung her head thinking her chance to beat her PR for the season was done. BUT...good things do happen to good people...we qualified in the 4x400! One more chance...this year...I am not a betting person but can guarantee that she will try her hardest to get that sub-60 time. One more week of hard work at practice to get to her goal. She will do it!

Watch out Des Moines! The Crusader track team is comin' down! Ready to conquer that blue track on May 17-19! We can do it!!