By Cpl. Jordan Johnson
Third Army/ARCENT Public Affairs
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait -- Hundreds of servicemembers and civilians braved a pre-dawn wake-up call, treacherous course conditions, and the physical and mental hurdles of running a great distance to compete in the sixth annual Camp Buehring 10-miler here Oct. 2.
On run day, participants were allotted three hours to successfully navigate the course. However, many hours were spent in the planning stages before the runners even approached the start line.
"There is a lot that goes into the preparation for the run," said Lawrence Engerman, director for Base Support Battalion -- North Morale, Welfare and Recreation director. "The event is hosted by the MWR, but the entire camp comes out to support it."
Engerman noted not only did servicemembers attend the run, but support groups from around the camp were on hand.
"You'll see security forces out there, the medics," said Engerman. "Every entity is here, whether they are volunteering or helping to put on the event."
For many, one of the highlights of the race was the camaraderie experienced by all groups and bases joining as one.
"I'm glad the MWR holds events like this because it brings the camps together," said Staff Sgt. Long Tran, biomedical and container management noncommissioned officer, 3rd Medical Command (Deployment Support), Camp Arifjan. "You get to meet with your different units and catch up on things."
Tran, who finished the run in a Camp Buehring 10-mile-run record 57 minutes and four seconds, is an experienced runner and trains diligently to achieve his best.
"I wanted to set the record, and I did it," Tran stated. "For preparation, I ran five days a week, and mainly did distance runs. I ran 6-8 miles each of those days."
Not only does Tran, a Fort Lauderdale native, focus on running numerous miles, but he also pays attention to how he finishes.
"Get out there and challenge yourself," Tran stated. "At the end of the run, you want to work on pushing yourself so you can build endurance and stamina."
Many of those who partook in the 10-miler shared Tran's vision of pushing their body to the limit, and recognitions were bestowed upon the top competitors.
"For the category you've signed up in, they've got awards for you if you finish in first or second place," said Lt. Col. Martin Snider, commander, BSB-N and Annondale, Va. resident.
Categories were broken down by gender and age, and awards were presented at a ceremony following the run. Intensity was high as the run neared, but Snider was able to joke with the runners.
"To those of you who sprint hard, I'll be cheering you on from somewhere in the middle," Snider joked.
Overall, the morning went along smoothly and people were able to enjoy the atmosphere. The only minor hiccup was getting everyone signed up, said Engerman.
"Registration ran a little late because we had so many participants," Engerman stated. "I'm looking at the numbers, and I'm speculating between 800 and 1,000 people participated; maybe even more than 1,000."
The overwhelming response to the run was positive, the MWR leader said.
"It's fantastic there were so many runners," said Engerman. "It shows the Camp Buehring 10-miler is getting more recognition."
Third Army is keeping its personnel ready tonight by holding events such as the 10-miler, which boosted morale and offered a great chance for servicemembers to stay in top shape. By building cohesion and teamwork, Third Army is shaping the future of its force.
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