Born to run

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Thomas Dow
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  One of Minot AFB's own is scheduled to run the 12th annual Air Force Marathon Sept. 20 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, as the only Airman from Minot AFB to be selected a member of Team Air Combat Command. 

Senior Airman KellyTimney, 5th Bomb Wing public affairs photographer, said she has always been into running, but this was a chance to not only challenge herself, but a way to represent the base and ACC. 

"After running the local Trestle Valley Marathon for fun, I decided I wanted to going to the Air Force marathon on my own," said Airman Timney. "But I quickly realized I couldn't afford to go." 

Luckily for Airman Timney, a co-worker saw an e-mail from the first sergeant stating ACC was looking for members to "try out" for the ACC team. This proved to be Airman Timney's chance to realize her goal. 

However, the process to become an ACC team member is a tough task in itself. Airman Timney said she had to fill out an Air Force Form 303 and give it to the point of contact at the base fitness center. Not too tough of a task, but the form must be filled out with verifiable times from previous running events. 

Fortunately, Airman Timney had recently completed the Marine Corps half-marathon and the local Trestle Valley full-marathon. Oddly enough, she did not do any additional training other than her regular physical training program. 

"The funny thing is I've never really trained specifically for a marathon before," said Airman Timney. "I just PT on a regular basis." 

Once she submitted the form and received word that she had been chosen for the marathon team, Airman Timney said she was excited but also honored and ready to represent. 

"When I found out I was chosen to be on the sponsored ACC team, I was excited," said Airman Timney. "I always wanted to go, but didn't really have the means to make the trip. Now I do, and now I will be able to represent Minot Air Force Base and ACC directly." 

Soon the excitement gave way to a determination to improve on her previous marathon performance. 

"This will only be my second full marathon, so I am hoping to dramatically improve on my time," said Airman Timney. "I know I have to be prepared." 

To improve on her time, Airman Timney said she researched the whole process of running a marathon. This included everything from putting together a training schedule to researching what she should eat and drink prior to and during the run. 

"I learned a lot about energy and calories," she said. "While running a marathon, to do your best, it's important to keep your energy up by refueling your body." 

Airman Timney's dedication and commitment are yet another way MAFB's Airmen demonstrate their willingness to go above and beyond, something that inspires pride in many, including Chief Master Sgt. Mark Clark, 5th BW command chief master sergeant. 

"We are proud of Senior Airman Timney's commitment to physical fitness and in her selection to represent Air Combat Command as part of the marathon team," said Chief Clark. "In today's lighter, leaner and more lethal Air Force, fitness will play a significant role in our readiness. The example Airman Timney is setting will inspire others to achieve their fitness goals." 

While representing the base and ACC could be an overwhelming experience, Airman Timney said she feels humbled. 

"I feel honored to be selected as a team member," she said. "Now I'll get to run with the best in the Air Force." 

The Air Force Marathon is always held in September to commemorate the founding of the Air Force as a separate military service on September 18, 1947. 

For more information on the Air Force Marathon, log onto http://www.usafmarathon.com/.