THIS IS COOL

Many runners at the United Technologies Greater Hartford Marathon were thinking about friends and loved ones now serving with the Connecticut's National Guard in Iraq rather than the 26.2 mile race they were running on October 11.

The results - a new "Run in Honor" tribute to Connecticut's National Guard from 160 runners and $4,000 they contributed - were lauded at ceremonies Monday, October 27, 2003 at the State Armory on Broad Street. A personalized "We Care" package will be sent from runners (who donated $25 each) to Connecticut's own now serving in Iraq.

Each runner's name and race number "bib" will be included with the sundry personal items being sent to Iraq. A sample "We Care" package was on display at the ceremony.

"It's the running community's way of saying 'We really do appreciate your sacrifice'," Marathon Race Director Beth Shluger said.