Mar 27, 2000

(commenting on April Runner's World column) As a senior in high school in 1965 I went to Greenville, Illinois, to run in a 20-K road race. I had the fortunate experience of meeting a man you mentioned in your column, Arne Richards.

I had never raced/run that far, and my nervousness must have been showing. Arne started a conversation with me about my running. He informed me that he would be running a six-minute pace, and I would be welcome to come along.

I'll never forget that race and Arne. I ran 1:14:37 and finished third behind Arne after running almost the whole way with him. I know the exact time, because now 35
years later I am looking at the ribbon and card I received.

I saw Arne at other races and always marveled at his dedication. It was good people like him who made road running what it is today. (Art Lawson)

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