Minot AFB Airman wins local marathon

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Wesley Wright
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  An Airman from here took first place in the Trestle Valley Marathon April 28.

Lt. Col. John Worley, 5th Security Forces commander, won the marathon by posting a 2:45:12 run time, shattering the previous record of 2:56:00.

The 26.2-mile course starts at the city limits of Minot and quickly enters the prairie, descending into Trestle Valley.

According to marathon officials, many twists and turns challenge runners, leading to what some call the most formidable challenge at mile 22, a hill affectionately referred to as "Roadkill Hill" by local runners.

Aid stations with water and sports drinks are set up every two miles to assist runners in the race.

"The conditions were good except for very strong winds," Colonel Worley said. "The course had several steep hills."

Colonel Worley is no stranger to marathons, as this one marked his eighth. He also competed in the 2005 Marine Corps Marathon.

"I enjoy the challenge of the training and the actual race itself," he said. "Each marathon is unique. You compete not just against other runners, but against the elements and the distance itself. Completing the event gives me a huge sense of accomplishment."

The colonel had some tips for people who'd like to run a marathon, but think they might not be ready.

"If you are interested in running a marathon, pick a goal race and write it on your calendar. Develop a training program," he said. "Talk to other runners and/or go on-line to get information appropriate to your skill level to help you develop your program. There are no shortcuts to marathon training. Take plenty of time to prepare for the race and you will be successful."

Rita Tescher, one of the Trestle Valley Marathon directors, was impressed by the colonel's achievement.

"He did an awesome job," she said. "I've talked to many runners and a lot of them say this is one of the toughest courses they ran. This is truly unbelievable."