Devon runs for NOHS in the Tiger Run

Devon has always not been much of a runner. When he was in elementary school, Betsy used to have to go to school on the days Devon had the mile run to run with him to keep him from walking (the entire thing). Then, when Devon played soccer, he would run during the games - no problem, but practice - that was a different story. Well, after all the hard work Devon did this summer, and realizing he is in the best physical shape of his life, Devon joined the high school cross country team. The team has been practicing all summer; Devon joined at the beginning of August.

The day is finally here - the Tiger Run; Devon's first race. He is running a 5K for the first time ever. He has been running with the NOHS Cross Country team for only 4 weeks.

The boys huddle and chant

Devon in the stretch

Devon at the finish

By the time Devon ran, the course had been stirred up quite a bit. Dry grass "dust" was floating in the air everywhere. Allergies were killing everyone. The way the course runs - the boys run out a ways then circle back. This give spectators a chance to cheer them on at a few strategic places during the race. At the first opportunity for Betsy to cheer on Devon, she says, "Way to go Devon!" He replies, "I can't breathe!!!" Betsy is panicked. She actually had a premonition about this just moments before he came up that stretch when she saw all the grass dust floating in the air. She says several personal prayers asking Heavenly Father to just help him finish the race....please just help him breathe enough to finish the race.

Well, that is exactly what Heavenly Father did. Devon finished the race and then, shockingly collapsed to the ground.

Well, a few hours earlier, I needed to have Marissa's asthma inhaler, so I was carrying it in my purse. I never have her inhaler (nor mine for that matter). Luckily, when the medic asked me if I had his inhaler, I was so blessed to be able to say "Yes" and hand him the inhaler. Devon came around and cooled off in the big water spray from the fire engines. What a dramatic way to finish the race.

Devon's time was 21:03 for his first 5K!!! So proud of him.