Last night was the Sole Runners Going Away Party for Coach Gary at McKenna's on the Bay.
Coach Gary is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. His odyssey is going to begin with volunteering an orphanage in Nepal's Kathmandu.
Coach Steve started off the evening with a heartfelt tribute. Some Sole Runners shared Coach Gary anecdotes that evoked laughter. Others attested to the positive impact Coach Gary has had on their lives.
I loved the dichotomy of a Boston qualifier thanking Gary for pushing him to run faster than he ever thought he could followed by a back of the packer thanking Gary for giving her 'permission' to slow down when she was going too fast.
A group of us pooled together money for Gary to donate to the orphanage in Nepal. We also let him know we'd be more than willing to contribute additional funds in the future.
I wish Coach Gary all the best on his quest for spiritual enlightenment.
Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon. They stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same. Flavia Weedn
How awesome for him!!!! I wish him luck and safe travels and amazing spiritual enlightenment!
ReplyDeleteCoach Gary sounds like an inspiring man. It also sounds like he'll be greatly missed.
ReplyDeleteAll the best for him. He'll touch many more on his travels.
ReplyDeleteWow - how does some decide to do something like that? Very cool.
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing sounding guy! I'm sure his chronicles will be fun to hear about.
ReplyDeleteIt was a very cool night, thanks for inviting me! I love that he is going to continue spreading all of his positive energy!
ReplyDeleteHey! Just found your blog! Your coach sounds like a great guy! I wish him all the best!
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