photo by Arpan
On a relatively cool July day punctuated by showers and drizzle Asprihanal Aalto dazzled with 72.99 miles. He is averaging 70.59 miles per day(113.60 km). Seven men went past 60 miles with the lone over-70 mile man remaining the irrepressible Mr. Aalto.
Blog
Neighborly Visits
photo by Arpan
Everyday the 3100 mile race course is visited by many neighbors from the local area. Some of them come specifically to see the race and cheer on the runners, others come to the area as part of their daily routine to get exercise or play in the fields.
There are quite a few playgrounds within the half-mile circumference of the race course including baseball and cricket fields, basketball and handball courts, and a fully equipped playground for children with climbing bars, swings, slides and water spraying fountains for the hot days.
Even some of the local dogs like to come and watch, offering their own form of peaceful encouragement. It is always a welcome sight to see our neighbors and other visitors from farther away take the time to stop, watch, ask questions or even cheer the runners on. Whether alone, with their families or pets, even one person can make a difference in the friendly and inspirational atmosphere of the race which is itself based on friendly oneness and inspiration. Continue reading “Neighborly Visits”
Day 37: Top Two Step for Step
photo by Arpan
On a cloudy but dry day, both Grahak Cunningham and Asprihanal Aalto journeyed 71.34 miles to inch closer to the goal. Seven men went over sixty miles including a sparkling 69.14 miles for Stutisheel Lebedyev who had his second best day since Day 1.!!!
Day 36: Looking Better Than Good
photo by Arpan
On a bright, sunny low humidity day, eight men went over 60 miles. Led by the brilliant Finn – Asprihanal Aalto (70.79 miles) the top three averaged 70+ miles (Grahak – 69.69; Petr – 70.24) for the day. Let us acknowledge the lone woman in the race who passed another milestone. Suprabha Beckjord reached 2000 miles for the 14th time in her illustrious career. She defines longevity and perseverance – male or female.
Day 35: Top Three Lead the Way – Again
photo by Arpan
With three men over 70 miles today as well as eight over 60, the now five-week-old 3100 mile race is starting to get a little more interesting. Asprihanal Aalto led the way with 72.44 miles, followed by Grahak with 71.89 and then Petr reached 71.34 miles. Grahak has a streak of seven straight 70-mile performances. The clear skies and lower humidity helped the entire field reach for their best.`
Mystery Guests
photo by Arpan
Today the 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race was visited by about 40 ‘mystery guests’ who drove up in an old green and white school bus. The two organizers of this trip, Jason Eppink and Matt Green, called the trip ‘The Quest for Immortality’. Each weekend this summer, for seven weekends, different people are chosen to organize a day trip somewhere in New York City. No one in the group but the two organizers know where they are going to go or who they will meet. Even the restaurants and food are mysteries to the willing participants in this adventure group they call, ‘Going Places, Doing Stuff.’
On this trip they would witness the 3100 mile race, Ashrita’s Guiness Record demonstration and a private buffet meal at Annam Brahma Restaurant, where they also watched the wonderful documentary style video of Suprabha and the 3100 Mile Race. The adult group in their 20’s and 30’s seemed quite surprised and impressed with the whole experience at the race site. They asked many questions about the race and Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the 3100 Mile Race. Continue reading “Mystery Guests”
Day 34: Eight Beyond Sixty
photo by Jowan
Under sticky,warm conditions the runners continued their quest for the mystical brass ring. Grahak Cunningham and Asprihanal Aalto tied at 70.24 miles for Day Leader. Pavol Saraz moved from eleventh place to tenth while recording his third straight day over sixty miles.
COOKS OUTLOOK
Runners try not
To let their weight drop,
While us cooks
Hope not to put on a lot.
HELPERS PREDICAMENT
Helping isn’t always
An easy task,
When dealing with food
That just may not last.
Day 33: Fitness Shows
photo by Arpan
Asprihanal Aalto led the group with 73.54 miles today, with eight men topping sixty. Their remarkable fitness and gentle demeanors hides an intensity rarely seen by observers. They are approaching five weeks on the road with fine performances throughout. It is not just the cooler summer weather. About 11 days remain before the first finisher reaches the goal. We shall see.