While out there on the course, I imagined what it was like for those who endured the real Bataan Death March during WWII. I had studied the books, read the blogs and watched the documentaries. I thought I had a pretty good feel for what those guys experienced and I was ready to try and visualize their plight during the race. At the peak of my agony (which was in full swing during the last 5 miles or so!), I became witness to myself from a distance and took note of my state-of-the-art gear, the aid stations every 2 miles with cool Gatorade & fresh fruit, sunscreen, UV glasses, compression socks and so on…
With great clarity I came to realize that my Bataan experience, although a tribute to heroes, was merely a recreational event and thanks to those brave men, and others like them who have served our county, and continue to do so, I will never struggle as they did! Attempting to imagine the pain they experienced was a wasted effort. Forty minutes after this great epiphany I found myself having crossed the finish line and waiting for us under a tent were ten or so of the remaining Bataan survivors. It was truly a humbling experience to shake each man’s hand- the REAL heroes of Bataan!
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| Bataan Survivors. The Real Heroes. |
On a special note, I’d like to comment on the great company I found myself with leading up to, and during this event. Having played team sports throughout my life, it’s always a special bond that’s developed amongst friends & teammates when they suffer together. I’d like to thank you guys, my friends, for all your long hours of training and preparation. We suffered together alright! There is no way any of us would have done as well as we did having gone through that alone and that’s what friendship is all about!
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