The Travis Lichfield Award 2015

Travis Lichfield AKA: LICH (read more about him here)

With my parents and our good friend, Trevor Larson - He ran Cross Country with my brother and I

Congrats to Jacob Gill

Congrats to Katie Andrus

Richland Bomber Cross Country team / Awards Night

I gave each recipient a photo and a pair of black socks

My mom and the Gill family ... Congratulations!

With Katie Andrus

I was invited to present the Travis Lichfield award last night at the Richland Bomber Cross Country Banquet. It was an incredible opportunity and a night I won't soon forget.

I said a prayer that I wouldn't cry.
I said a prayer that my message would lift and inspire!

I believe Travis was there with all of us!

Special thanks to Trevor Larson for sharing a few thoughts and memories.

I ended my comments with this write-up from my fellow teammate - Christine Hess (class of '88)

It's been 27 years since I was a Bomber alongside Travis Lichfield, but I can still clearly see him running in my mind's eye. Not running, exactly, but floating. I see him rounding a curve on the track surrounded by heads bobbing and arms crossing their bodies. Towards the front of the pack was Travis. Long, skinny legs, black socks and impossibly long stride. Arms in a relaxed swing by his sides. You see, Travis had perfect form. He was one of the lucky few who was born to run. He ran efficiently and, well, beautifully. I recognized it even as a 16-year old. When we distance runners ran strides at the end of practice, I would try to emulate Travis's stride, try to capture some of that magic. When I went on to compete in college, and I was pushing myself against a much tougher crowd, I'd get tired and realize my form was suffering. In my head, I'd think to myself "Run like Travis." But his perfect form is not to say his success came without effort. He had the heart to back it up. He worked hard. We never got to see what Travis would have accomplished as a senior or as a collegiate runner. But it makes me smile to know that there are other runners carrying his torch. I was so happy to hear that fellow athletes who embody the same spirit are given an award in his name each year. As one who ran with him, I hope they understand the honor it is to stand in his company and that they continue to carry that spirit forward in everything they do.

I didn't cry. Well, not until I got home! And then, I let the tears fall - It was a good cry. One full of gratitude, memories and love!

Thanks Richland Bomber Cross Country for letting me be part of your special night! And for giving this award out for the past 26 years.

Inspiration from John on NBC’s “Biggest Loser” -

I was watching my brother-in-law, John, on NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” this week and couldn’t help but reflect on his journey to lose weight. He has done amazing on the show and even set a new record for the amount of weight lost during the first 6 weeks. As a family, we have enjoyed watching the participants as they have dared to be vulnerable in front of millions and work through some really tough issues to lose the pounds. It’s been very inspiring! And I respect their commitment and determination.

It’s the first day of December and that means Christmas is only 25 days away … The Extreme Makeover episode on the “Biggest Loser” caused me to slow down for a moment and reflect on the importance of our choices and actions. It was so great to see John step out of that limo onto the red carpet and SEE all his hard work. He looked fantastic! In fact, all the participants looked
fabulous. They gave themselves and their families a wonderful gift – the gift of health! :)

As we kick off this holiday season, let’s remember the ‘gifts’ we give ourselves and acknowledge the power we each have inside - to change our lives!

Just as John has created a new life and image for himself – we can too… with our determination and hard work - one little moment at a time!

[Click here for more info on John and The Biggest Loser]