Bilynda, age 11

When I was six years old, I began running at Peaks View Park with some of my homeschool friends.  We would go to the park every Friday to run a mile and play after we ran.  Soon afterwards, the homeschool newsletter mentioned the John A. Stephenson Memorial Youth Run. Mom asked me if I was interested in participating.  After some thought, I decided to give it a try.  I actually placed 2nd in my age group!

Because I had fun in my first race, I ran the Genesis House Turkey Trot. After the race, I wanted to officially become a runner.  When I was eight, I ran my first 5k, the Jingle Bell run for arthritis.  Currently, I run for the Peaks View Pacers, which is a homeschool cross country team.  I continue to run some races as well as participate in other sports.  I am deeply grateful for the opportunities God has given me.