VOA’s 2014 Capital Challenge racers
After a long winter here in Washington, spring is in the air and you can see more than a few runners getting in their miles on the National Mall near our Voice of America headquarters.
Some are running for their own personal health, while others are training for upcoming races. The Washington area has a vibrant racing scene, and many of the competitions raise money for charity.
On May 20th, I’ll be joining 14 of my VOA colleagues for the 34th running of the ACLI Capital Challenge. The three-mile road race in Anacostia Park benefits the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, which provides trained guide dogs and services to blind and visually impaired people.
From left to right: VOA’s Eric Phillips, Karin Zeitvogel, Sonny Young and William Scottt after the 2014 race.
In addition to many members of the media, the charity race features teams led by Senators, Representatives and other top U.S. government officials.
Race Director Jeff Darman says the event “promotes healthy living in the shadow of the Capitol as many physically fit Washington luminaries set an excellent example on race day each year.”
Dathan Ritzenhein waves the American flag after qualifying for the USA’s 2012 Olympic team in the 10,000 meters. Photo: AP
Each year, Darman brings in a celebrity runner to help showcase the race.
This year’s celebrity is Dathan Ritzenhein, a three-time Olympian for the United States who will compete in the Boston Marathon April 20th.
The 32-year-old Ritzenhein will serve as the official Capital Challenge “whistle blower” and start the runners on their way. Then he’ll jump in and run from the back of the pack.
I have no doubts if Dathan puts his mind to it, he’ll catch up to me quickly.
Don’t worry, Sonny! Dathan will have to run past me first and I’ll distract him and tie his shoelaces together so that you can win one for the team! I also plan to bring in a coach from the Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena for the team.
I ll definitely be rooting for Sonny on May 20th! Go Sonny! Go Sonny!! Go Sonny!!!
Sonny, good to see you contribute to this charitable cause by participating in the forthcoming race.Joining 14 of your VOA colleagues is a good idea.Honestly blindness and visual impaired problems is a serious health problem and challenge affecting millions of people worldwide and contributing in assisting people with such problems in whatsoever way one can help makes the world a better place to live.I wish you a sound healthy running exercise.