Fitness center hosts indoor half-marathon

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica McConnell
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Air Force Global Strike Command and Team Minot Airmen assigned to the 5th Maintenance Squadron participated in the second annual Mustang Run at the McAdoo Sports and Fitness Center here Dec. 31.

With more than 20 Airmen, civilian workers and family members signed up and ready to run, many might wonder why anyone would want to run the 105 laps it takes to complete a half marathon indoors.

"It's more than just a 13.1 mile run for many people," said Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Raupach, 5th MXS aerospace ground equipment flight chief. "For first timers, an accomplishment like this is a life changing event. Events like this are inspirational and foster teamwork, fellowship and camaraderie."

Not only do events like this encourage team unity, they also reinforce an important part of the Air Force mission.

"It encourages health and wellness," said Sergeant Raupach. "It proves fitness isn't a May to September affair. Fitness and healthy lifestyles are a year-round commitment. Fitness doesn't have to be work, it can be fun."

Chief Master Sgt. John Van Duser, 5th Maintenance Group quality assurance chief, used the marathon to test his overall physical endurance.

"I have been thinking about running the Air Force Marathon in September and used the New Year's Mustang Run as a test as to see how I could do," he said. "It succeeded in reinforcing my ability to run the longer distance."

According to Chief Van Duser, running the half marathon wasn't as difficult as many thought it would be.

"The thought of running 105 laps around the fitness center's track was the biggest mental hurdle to get past," said the chief. "The organizers, spectators and lap counters did an excellent job in creating a positive atmosphere to get those who were participating through to the end."

Encouragement received from supporters wasn't the only motivating force in getting runners through the race.

"Events like this are important to participate in because they push people to do things beyond what they think they are capable of," said the chief.

Finishing first in 1 hour, 42 minutes, 28 seconds was Airman 1st Class Justin Blanchard, 5th MXS aerospace ground equipment apprentice. Second was Chief Van Duser, finishing at 1: 46: 42. Finishing third with a time of 1: 51: 33 was Airman 1st Class Jeremy Hernandez, 5th MXS aerospace ground equipment apprentice.