This news just in (luckily a little less distressing than the Crocodile Hunter's death earlier today...):
Creve Coeur, Missouri--Two local priests and two seminarians made fine showings at the 29th annual JCC Labor Day Run. The 5K and 10K courses are renowned among Saint Louis runners for the difficulty of their hills, both in incline and in placement. And though the 67-degree coolness provided a welcome respite from the week's heat, the nearly smothering humidity--measured at 90% by a local weather station--witnessed runners sweating even during their warm-ups.
Of the 180 folks who ran the 5K (3.1 miles), Glennon sophomore Charlie Samson held off several cross-country stars to cross the line 6th overall for 2nd place in his age group. Reverend Michael Butler (Kenrick '89), the Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese, announced his return to the racing scene with a top 25 finish, winning his age group outright.
Over 200 runners competed in the 10K (6.2 miles). Reverend Bill Vatterott (Kenrick '03), Associate Pastor of Holy Infant parish in Ballwin, used the race to gauge his training for the Chicago marathon. He kicked to 11th overall and won his age group. Stephen Mirarchi, new to Kenrick in first-year Theology, finished 6th overall and placed first in his respective age group as well.
Through their entry fees, the four men contributed $85 to the JCC's mission of promoting physical and spiritual growth in an interactive, multigenerational gathering place.
Congratulations! A fine team effort to all involved. (And, interestingly enough, I was DDR'ing (is that the term?) against Charlie Samson the night before this race... and he still placed 6th/2nd!).