Pre-race Worship Service Draws a Crowd

Attendance doubled at our second annual 6 a.m. pre-race worship service before the Athens Half Marathon. Close to 100 people huddled together in the Atrium to keep warm on chilly morning to enjoy a brief time of singing, prayer, and inspiration.

Many runners who attended came from other cities, and expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to enjoy a worship experience before tackling the hilly 13.1 mile course.

Elders Bertis Downs, Kitty Donnan, Denise Horton and Drew Brantley served as readers. Julie, Sam and Claire Thompson led the singing and accompaniment. Parish Associate Bob Googe inspired us all with a timely message. After the service, participants enjoyed Jittery Joe’s coffee and access to clean bathrooms and free parking.

Here are comments we received from runners who attended:

“It was simple, meaningful and helped me throughout the race, and the day in general.”

“It was a great way to start a great day.”

“It was a terrific service and a great way to start the Half-Marathon.”

“The service this morning was wonderful. Thank you, again, for perfect start to race day.”

First Presbyterian had 24 members or relatives of members complete the race. Two members came home with age-group winner awards – Mary Catherine Smith and Carol Robinson.

Here’s the order in which they crossed the finish line:

• Mary Catherine Smith
• Jessica Ward
• Andrew Whitehead
• Julie Osborne
• Julie Thompson
• Christina Iwane Dunn
• John Dunn
• John Eric Schleicher
• Richard Williams
• Denise Horton
• Bob Googe
• Tommy Jackson
• Madie Fischetti
• Daniel Thompson
• Steven Havick
• Sam Thompson
• Chuck Toney
• Dan Horton
• Ashlee Schleicher
• Katie Pinson McNeil
• Kielly Dunn
• Carol Robinson
• Sarah Latimer
• Bertis Downs

Thank you to coordinator Megan Sperr, co-captain Drew Brantley and Jessica Owens, Elizabeth Brantley, Kitty Donnan, Addie Downs, Chuck Hunt, Jimmy Klein, Bryan Owens, Claire Thompson, Leslie Trier and Allison Shelton who represented First Presbyterian Church at the mile 12 water station.