Last weekend Naomi, Louie and Naomi's running pal, Lauren, ran in the Grand Rapids Marathon. This was a thrill for me since it included a huge get-together with all the Michigan Newtons. I'm going to let the photos do most of the "talking" but the full cast of characters include: Newt, Susan, Naomi, Louie, Lauren, Dennis, Kathy, Kylie, Brittany, Mariah, Derek, Christy, Alex, Dana, Paula and Sebastian.
Saturday, the day before the race, provided some quality time with most of the Newtons.
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| Louie, Naomi, Lauren and Brittany enjoy a short Saturday run |
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| Sebastian and Naomi make eyes at each other |
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| The Michigan Newton Gang, minus Derek, Christy, Alex and me, pose above the Grand River |
Sunday was race day, with Louie running the half-marathon while Naomi and Lauren take on the full 26.2 miles. It was a beautiful day for running. Cool temps, clean air, blue skies, and wonderful fall colors.
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| Dawn breaks at the YMCA, the site of the marathon start/finish |
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| Louie (left center) gives us a big wave near the start |
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| Naomi and Lauren are also pumped up at the start |
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| Louie (center) finished with a new personal best time and is surrounded by his fans - all the Newton Gang except Dennis |
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| The Newton Gang are watching for Lauren and Naomi |
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| We cheer Naomi on at the 23.5 mile mark. Less than 3 miles to go |
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| Lauren and Naomi look surprisingly fresh after the marathon |
Congrats to the marathoners. Louie set a new PB for the half, Lauren finished the full in 3:43 and Naomi in 3:53.
