Run It Fast®

Run It Fast’s ‘Race Across the USA‘ entered week two with all four teams pushing their limits just as they have for eight days now. Week 2 started, like week 1, did with the Suzy Michelson Team putting down a very strong day, almost an exact replica of their day 1. A week ago they started the race with 188.97 miles and today landed on 188.23. That’s impressive! Our middle two teams, Jeffrey Price Team and Charlie Taylor Team, had nearly identical performances today. JPT maintains a healthy lead over 3rd and a good ways behind the SMT for first. The Hope Shull Team fell back asleep today failing to break 100 mi/day with just 96.90

Day 8 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 188.23 miles (12.55 mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 147.82 miles (9.85 mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 145.32 miles (9.69 mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 96.90 miles (6.46 mi/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings 

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 1,520.36 miles (190.05/day, 52.3% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 1,329.30  miles (166.16 mi/day, 45.7% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 1,157.99 miles (144.75 mi/day, 39.8% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 1,011.23 miles (126.40 mi/day, 34.8% completed)

The four teams are nearly residing in four separate states. The Suzy Michelson Team, currently in 1st place, is literally a few hundred feet from crossing into Arkansas. They likely would have if the Cherokee Casino had not been directly on their route. Anthony Ohrey and Leslie Studtmann talked team captain Shane Tucker into stopping for some Blackjack. Their next runner to take the baton will run them into the Razorback State.

The Jeffrey Price Team is in Yukon, Oklahoma, just short of Oklahoma City, currently in 2nd place. The third place Charlie Taylor Team is currently in McLean, Texas in hope of that ‘American Pie,’ but all they’ve found there is Devil’s Rope Musuem. The Hope Shull Team is still in New Mexico, only two states behind The Suzys, are holed up at the Russell’s Truck Stop. They should finally cross into Texas tomorrow morning.

Click HERE to view where the teams are on the Google Map

Suzy Michelson Team: Sound n’ Pound, big talking and even bigger miles, returned today with strong, long miles from so many on the Suzys. The team pounded the asphalt non-stop today stopping for nothing. They were truly 2 Legit 2 Sh!t.

They were led by Texan Alex Barrientos with 27.50 miles, Chris Clemens 24.51 miles, and David Nichols 21.28 miles. Leslie Studtmann had 18.27 miles (57.56 over the last 3 days). Barry Reece was strong once again with 17.02 miles and Kimberly Atkins with 15.02 miles.

SMT will step foot into Arkansas in the morning. It will be their 6th state the team has reached in 9 days.

Suzy Team Data at a Glance
Place: 1st
Day 8 Miles: 188.23 (1st)
Total Miles: 1,520.36
Top 5 SMT Runners (Day 8)

1. Alex Barrientos – 27.50
2. Chris Clemens – 24.51
3. David Nichols – 21.28
4. Leslie Studtmann – 18.27
5. Barry Reece – 17.02

Jeffrey Price Team: After winning their first day yesterday with the most miles, the JPT took a bit of a step back today with four members taking the day off after a smashing weekend. However they still wound up with 147.82 miles that was good enough for the second most miles of the day. JPT was fueled once again by their tri-cycle of excellence from Karl Studtmann, Heather McComb, and Tom Orr. Karl had the second most miles of any runner on Monday with 30.49 miles, giving him 108.22 miles over the last three days. Heather completed her 8th consecutive day of 20+ miles with 20.33. Orr added 16.1. Sofie Romero had her biggest day so far with 18.58 miles.

Jeffrey Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 2nd
Day 8 Miles: 147.82 (2nd)
Total Miles: 1,329.30
Miles Back: -191.06
Top 5 JPT Runners (Day 8)

1. Karl Studtmann – 30.49
2. Heather McComb – 20.33
3. Sofie Romero – 18.58
4. Tom Orr – 16.1
5. Karla Kent – 12.07

Charlie Taylor Team: Steve Acciarito has gutted out strong miles every day of the race, but on Monday he ramped it up to a level very few in the race have so far. Steve, over the course of five segments, pumped out the most miles of any runner today with 32.78 miles. Steve is battling bad knees, a bum foot, yet keeps trying and doing all he can for the Chucks. Tiffani Glass eclipsed her third 20+ mile performance of the race. Seth Crowe contributed 14.12 miles along with Jeremy Reed (12.39 miles).

Everyone on the team contributed for the eighth consecutive day including Sharon Carver who is battling a couple of injuries.

Charlie Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 3rd
Day 8 Miles: 145.32 (3rd)
Total Miles: 1,157.99
Miles Back: -362.37
Top 5 CTT Runners (Day 8)

1. Steve Acciarito – 32.78
2. Tiffani Glass – 20.37
3. Joshua Holmes – 15.45
4. Seth Crowe – 14.12
5. Jeremy Reed – 12.39

Hope Shull Team: ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Hope Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 4th
Day 8 Miles: 96.9 (4th)
Total Miles: 1,011.23
Miles Back: -509.13
Top 5 HST Runners (Day 8)

1. Kit Brazier – 21.46
2. Marylou Corino – 20.00
3. Scott Kufferath – 14.03
4. Cathy Downes – 12.54
5. Megan Chiu – 6.27

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Alex Barrientos (27.50 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Karl Studtmann (30.49 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Steve Acciarito (32.78 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Kit Brazier (21.46 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Steve Acciarito (CTT) – 32.78
2. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 30.49
3. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 27.50
4. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 24.51
5. Kit Brazier (HST) – 21.46
6. David Nichols (SMT) – 21.28
7. Tiffani Glass (CTT) – 20.37
8. Heather McComb (JPT) – 20.33
9. Marylou Corino (HST) – 20.00
10. Sofie Romero (JPT) – 18.58

Top 10 Race Mile Leaders

1. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 197.37
2. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 184.36
3. Heather McComb (JPT) – 168.41
4. Tom Orr (JPT) – 157.80
5. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 157.42
6. David Nichols (SMT) – 152.43
7. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 148.28
8. Marylou Corino – (HST) – 145.60
9. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 145.22
10. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 130.28

Steve Acciarito is the ‘Race Across the USA’ –  Peak Performer of the Day for Day 8.

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 8: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Lt. Dan Taylor
• Day 7: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Ben Hur-on
• Day 6: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Russell Branded
• Day 5: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Stairway to Heaven
• Day 4: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – 5 Nichols & 1 Penny
• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

The first week of Run It Fast’s – Race Across the USA had massive miles and contributions from all 60 runners that make up the four teams.

Eight of the top 10 most miles came from the Suzy Michelson Team and Jeffrey Price Team.

Sixteen runners had 100+ mile weeks, many for the very first time. Others recorded the most miles they ever have in a week as well.

Here is a complete list of the 4,440.61 miles put down over the past seven days in this fun and challenging event.

	Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA Overall Mileage
	Name	Team	Week 1
1	Chris Clemens	(SMT)	172.86
2	Karl Studtman	(JPT)	153.87
3	Heather McComb	(JPT)	148.08
4	Tom Orr	(JPT)	141.7
5	Barry Reece	(SMT)	140.4
6	David Nichols	(SMT)	131.15
7	Seth Crowe	(CTT)	131.1
8	Marylou Corino	(HST)	125.6
9	Alex Barrientos	(SMT)	120.78
10	Thomas Fowler	(SMT)	120.02
11	Kimberly Atkins	(SMT)	115.26
12	Joshua Holmes	(CTT)	114.43
13	Jeremy Reed	(CTT)	103.81
14	Melissa Price	(JPT)	102.96
15	Kit Brazier	(HST)	102.11
16	Randy Broadway	(HST)	100.5
17	Alfa Severino	(JPT)	93.09
18	Cathy Downes	(HST)	92.14
19	Elva Matamoros	(CTT)	90.53
20	Jen Metcalf	(CTT)	86.97
21	Jamie JR Reynolds	(SMT)	86.91
22	Leslie Studtmann	(SMT)	83.86
23	Ben Herron	(HST)	83.42
24	Karla Kent	(JPT)	82.73
25	Tiffani Glass	(CTT)	76.63
26	Shane Tucker	(SMT)	76.62
27	John Leighton	(JPT)	73.15
28	Steve Acciarito	(CTT)	71.12
29	Darrell Richardson	(JPT)	68.03
30	Lance Forest	(JPT)	64.55
31	Lori Robinson	(HST)	61.01
32	Eryn Tyner	(SMT)	59.83
33	Aimee Shilling	(CTT)	59.47
34	Greta Reed	(CTT)	57.95
35	Anthony Ohrey	(SMT)	57.15
36	Donna Jones Burns	(JPT)	55.65
37	Sherry Meador	(HST)	53.54
38	Houston Wolf	(HST)	52.95
39	Megan Chiu	(HST)	51.56
40	Robin Robbins	(CTT)	50.32
41	Violeta Heisler	(SMT)	50.27
42	Jemal Swoboda	(CTT)	46.32
43	Kim Crowe	(SMT)	44.18
44	Alicja Grace S Miles	(JPT)	42.81
45	Jeff Lea	(SMT)	42.34
46	Rachael Anderson	(HST)	42.24
47	Eric Spencer	(JPT)	42.18
48	Sofie Romero	(JPT)	41.75
49	David Oglesby	(JPT)	40.93
50	Scott Kufferath	(HST)	38.83
51	Juleann Roberts	(HST)	35.39
52	Renée Holcomb	(CTT)	33.92
53	Sharon Carver	(CTT)	30.8
54	Trent Rosenbloom	(SMT)	30.5
55	Marj Mitchell	(CTT)	30.34
56	Aaron Braunstein	(JPT)	30.0
57	Jill Williams	(CTT)	28.96
58	Jimmy Girten	(HST)	26.7
59	Josh Tyner	(HST)	24.19
60	Chuck Roberts	(HST)	24.15
	Total Miles		4,440.61
	Average Per Runner		74.01

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RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings 

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 1,332.13 miles (192.85/day, 45.8% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 1,181.48  miles (165.09 mi/day, 40.6% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 1,012.67 miles (142.61 mi/day, 34.8% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 914.33 miles (122.6 mi/day, 31.5% completed)

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 7: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Ben Hur-on
• Day 6: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Russell Branded
• Day 5: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Stairway to Heaven
• Day 4: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – 5 Nichols & 1 Penny
• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

Run It Fast’s ‘Race Across the USA‘ has moved into it’s seventh day. No one on any of these teams rested though, even after yesterday’s record setting day by all four teams.

The weekend was won by the Jeffrey Price Team. For the second day in a row they made up ground on the first place Suzy Michelson Team. The Jeffs compiled 461.61 miles over the two days with 190.95 coming today after their race high of 270.66 miles on Saturday. With this strong push they’ve gained 24 miles on The Suzys.

The Suzy’s still hold a comfortable overall lead of 150.65 miles. However, after smashing the first five days with the most daily miles every day, they’ve been beaten the last two days, and today two teams finished with more miles than they did. The resurgent Hope Shull Team tallied 178.74 miles today just edging the Suzys. The Suzys ended up with 175.03.

The Charlie Taylor Team had what they thought was a strong day, with 157.03, until they heard what the other three teams recorded for the day. They had the fourth most miles for the day, but they remain a strong hold of third place over the fourth place team.

Day 7 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 175.03 miles (11.67 mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 190.95 miles (12.73 mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 157.03 miles (10.47 mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 178.74 miles (11.92 mi/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings 

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 1,332.13 miles (192.85/day, 45.8% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 1,181.48  miles (165.09 mi/day, 40.6% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 1,012.67 miles (142.61 mi/day, 34.8% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 914.33 miles (122.6 mi/day, 31.5% completed)

Click HERE to view where the teams are on the Google Map

The four teams currently are split into three states. The Suzy Michelson Team, currently in 1st place, is already in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The Jeffrey Price Team is in Shamrock, Texas and getting very close to the ‘Sooner State.’ Our third and fourth place teams, the Charlie Taylor Team and the Hope Shull Team, are still in New Mexico with the Chucks practically nestled up on the barbed wire of the Texas border.

Suzy Michelson Team: Any true criticism of this team would be nitpicking. They dominated this week with 1,332.13 miles over seven days. They have a 150 mile lead, and they have heavy hitters that would make the 1932 New York Yankees envious.

Today they had the third most miles with 175.03 but were just 15 miles off the top team of the day. They were led once again by the ‘Tullahoma Tornado’ Chris Clemens with 24.1 miles. He’s had a remarkable 172.86 miles since the start of the race a week ago, the most of any runner on any team. His main support today came from JR Reynolds with 20.41 miles, his third 20 mile day of the week.

Other strong efforts for the race leaders today came from Barry Reece (17.01 mi), Leslie Studtmann (15.25), and Kimberly Atkins (15.14).

Violeta Heisler, who has been burning the candle at both ends while working herself back into shape from an injury, rocked out with 29.09 miles for the weekend. So many stories like Violeta’s have uplifted and inspired so many people this week.

Suzy Team Data at a Glance
Place: 1st
Day 7 Miles: 175.03 (3rd)
Total Miles: 1,332.13
Top 5 SMT Runners (Day 7)

1. Chris Clemens – 24.1
2. JR Reynolds – 20.41
3. Barry Reece – 17.01
4. Leslie Studtmann – 15.25
5. Kimberly Atkins – 15.14

Jeffrey Price Team: The Jeffs shoot 20-mile bombs out of a cannon day in and day out. Heather McComb finished her week of 20+’s with 21.04 miles. She had an astounding 148.08 miles this week. She has set the early tone, day in and day out. Tom ‘Stairway’ Orr took a step down today, but he still knocked out 20.37 miles. He finished the week with 141.7 miles, the biggest mileage week of his life. Heather and Tom have provided a consistent base every day that the team built on this weekend that led this team to the most miles of the weekend.

Karl Studtmann had a cool 20.53 miles after his 57.2 megatron bomb yesterday that reset the narrative of the race between the Jeffs and Suzys. Alfa Severino also contributed 20.01 miles.

Team captain Melissa Price finished the week with 15.01 miles topping off with the week with 102.96 miles. A epic week from this entire team, top to bottom. Can they keep it up and catch the leaders? Week two will tell a lot.

Jeffrey Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 2nd
Day 7 Miles: 190.95 (1st)
Total Miles: 1,181.48
Miles Back: -150.65
Top 5 JPT Runners (Day 7)

1. Heather McComb – 21.04
2. Karl Studtmann – 20.53
3. Tom Orr – 20.37
4. Alfa Severino – 20.01
5. Alicja Miles – 16.30

Charlie Taylor Team: Today the CTT team got a major performance from Elva Matamoros with 32.02 miles. Those big miles gave her 90.53 miles for the week. Her miles were a major boost to the Chucks today after many members of this team were sore and hobbled today. The team also got help from Seth Crowe  with 29.25 miles. Seth’s 131.1 miles easily made him the team’s MVP of the Week. Team captain Joshua Holmes rounded out his week with 21.7 miles.

The Chucks once again had everyone contribute and finished the week a perfect 105 for 105.

Charlie Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 3rd
Day 7 Miles: 157.03 (4th)
Total Miles: 1,012.67
Miles Back: -319.46
Top 5 CTT Runners (Day 7)

1. Elva Matamoros – 32.02
2. Seth Crowe – 29.25
3. Joshua Holmes – 21.70
4. Steve Acciarito – 13.13
5. Aimee Shilling – 12.04

Hope Shull Team: Ultra veteran Ben Herron led a multi-faceted attack today for Hope’s team. He rolled off 32.42 miles, by far his most miles of the race to this point. He was joined by team captain Marylou Corino who nailed 25.0 miles, her third 25+ mile performance of the week. More help came from Cathy Downes with 20.16 miles which gave her an impressive 51.51 miles for the weekend. Arizona native Lori Robinson was also superb today with 20.22 miles making a strong two day contribution of 38.36 miles. Sherry Meador’s 15.08 miles topped off a nice weekend for her, and Jimmy Girten ran 10.07 miles today. His longest run since the inception of the iPhone.

The Hopes had 380.06 miles over the two day weekend. They have a lot of momentum going into the new week as they try to chase down the Charlie Taylor Team that is in front of them.

Hope Team Data at a Glance
Overall Place: 4th
Day 7 Miles: 178.74 (2nd)
Total Miles: 914.33
Miles Back: -417.8
Top 5 HST Runners (Day 7)

1. Ben Herron – 32.42
2. Marylou Corino – 25.00
3. Lori Robinson – 20.22
4. Cathy Downes – 20.16
5. Sherry Meador – 15.08

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Chris Clemens (24.10 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Heather McComb (21.04 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Elva Matamoros (32.02 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Ben Herron (32.42 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Ben Herron (HST) – 32.42
2. Elva Matamoros – (CTT) – 32.02
3. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 29.25
4. Marylou Corino (HST) – 25.00
5. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 24.1
6. Joshua Holmes (CTT) – 21.7
7. Heather McComb (JPT) – 21.04
8. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 20.53
9. JR Reynolds (SMT) – 20.41
10. Tom Orr (JPT) – 20.37

Top 10 Race Mile Leaders

1. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 172.86
2. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 153.87
3. Heather McComb (JPT) – 148.08
4. Tom Orr (JPT) – 141.70
5. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 140.40
6. David Nichols (SMT) – 131.15
7. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 131.10
8. Marylou Corino – (HST) – 125.60
9. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 120.78
10. Thomas Fowler (SMT) – 120.02

Ben Herron (HST) is the ‘Race Across the USA’ –  Peak Performer of the Day with his 32.42 miles.

Honorable Mention: Elva Matamoros (CTT) with 32.02 miles.

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 7: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Ben Hur-on
• Day 6: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Russell Branded
• Day 5: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Stairway to Heaven
• Day 4: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – 5 Nichols & 1 Penny
• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

Run It Fast’s ‘Race Across the USA‘ has brought together strangers, friends, frenemies, and down-right enemies that are on four diverse teams working hard together, and for each other, to try to advance their team across the country towards the finish line in New York City.

Today was a workman/woman day on the road that was a bit boring from a spectator’s viewpoint looking at the race in a one day prism. But this race isn’t a one day event, and several performances today concluded amazing 5-Day workweek totals.

Suzy Michelson Team: The Suzy’s don’t have bad days. They have days where they inhale and other days when they exhale. Today was an inhale day for the team that included their usual impressive output from it’s very deep roster. They dipped slightly from yesterday’s record output but still easily had more miles than any other team. They finished the day with 164.93 miles. They had contributions from everyone on Day 5 and were led by Barry Reece (23.15 mi), Chris Clemens (20.73), JR Reynolds (20.06), and Kimberly Atkins (20.0). Other notable performances came from Thomas Fowler (16.01) and Alex Barrientos (13.11).

The Suzy’s put even more distance between them and the rest of the field. They are 2/3rd’s of the way through New Mexico which is amazing considering two of the four teams are still back in Arizona. They called in their miles for the day from Santa Rosa, New Mexico (population 2,848).

The Suzy’s (applying proper social distancing procedures) met with the Santa Rosa High School lawn mower racing club, one of the very first in the USA. They traded racing stories while eating pizza and drinking some awful electrolyte mix Captain Tucker has been making the team drink every night.

Our lawyers say we aren’t at liberty to discuss the special ointment Tucker has his team applying liberally to their legs every night and before they run the next day.

Suzy Team Data at a Glance
Place: 1st
Day 5 Miles: 164.93
Total Miles: 894.71
Top 3 SMT Runners (Entire Race)

1. Chris Clemens – 112.24
2. Barry Reece – 103.35
3. Thomas Fowler – 86.27

Jeffrey Price Team: It was the fourth consecutive day output dropped for the JP’s, but they still were able to put distance on the two teams behind them. The three most developing story-lines with this team are as follows. One, Heather ‘Double Dime’ McComb shows up and knocks out 20’s daily, every day. Friday was no different as she uncorked a 21.03 mile performance. It knocked her over the century mark for the workweek. Secondly, team captain Melissa Price has been running miles at such an escalating rate that the national debt is envious. She had her strongest day of the race with 16.47 miles (and has a total of 62.06 for the race). Jeffrey is for sure shining down on Melissa and how she is inspiring her entire team.

“And as we wind on down the road
Our shadows taller than our soul
There walks a lady we all know
Who shines white light and wants to show
How everything still turns to gold
And if you listen very hard
The tune will come to you at last
When all are one and one is all
To be a rock and not to roll
And she’s buying a stairway to Heaven”

And lastly, Tom ‘Stairway to Heaven’ Orr did it yet again on Friday. Increasing his daily miles for the fifth consecutive day. He put down 22.21 miles on Friday, ending with 98.12 miles for the week. His progression this week is as follows: 16.09, 18.39, 20.29, 21.14, and 22.21.

Jeffrey Team Data at a Glance
Place: 2nd
Day 5 Miles: 126.9
Total Miles: 719.87
Miles Back: -174.84
Top 3 JPT Runners (Entire Race)

1. Heather McComb – 106.4
2. Tom Orr – 98.12
3. Karl Studtmann – 76.14

Tom Orr is the ‘Race Across the USA’ –  Peak Performer of the Day.

Charlie Taylor Team: This gang woke up fresh, dressed, like a million bucks, threw on white socks, with their all blue chucks, stepped out the RV with no other team in sight. So, Steve Acciarito took their first asphalt bite, while the rest of the team dilly and dallied, and Ms. Marj met this exotic tea dealer, Sally, in the ally, while Greta Reed continued the team’s rally that started back in Cali.

The Chucks all showed up again, finishing the week a perfect 75 for 75 with team participation for the first 5 days of the race.

While their miles were slow to accumulate in the AM, a late day, hot baton passed back and forth that led to a respectful 110.04 miles for the day. They were led by Joshua Holmes (20.20 mi), Jeremy Reed (19.13 mi), and Elva Matamoros (16.03 mi). The Chucks are currently straddling the Arizona-New Mexico border and beyond socially distanced from the 2nd and 4th place teams.

Charlie Team Data at a Glance
Place: 3rd
Day 5 Miles: 110.04
Total Miles: 640.0
Miles Back: -254.71
Top 3 CTT Runners (Entire Race)

1. Seth Crowe – 80.83
2. Joshua Holmes – 78.69
3. Jeremy Reed – 78.13

Hope Shull Team: The snooze crew, after two strong days, relapsed into Napageddon with just 52.07 miles for Day 5. They were led by team captain, Marylou Corino, with 13.1 miles. Sherry Meador followed Lou with 11.11 miles. Five runners didn’t lace up today for the HST. Load management was listed as the reason in the captain’s report. We are expecting a big weekend from this team, though. They are the most rested and well fed team in the race.

The Hopes were last seen at the Love’s Travel Stop in Joseph City, Arizona where Juleann Roberts was sipping a slushie and Houston Wolf was seen bagging four Tornados.

Hope Team Data at a Glance
Place: 4th
Day 5 Miles: 52.07
Total Miles: 534.27
Miles Back: -338.64
Calories Consumed: 783,193
Top 3 HST Runners (Entire Race)

1. Marylou Corino – 90.6
2. Kit Brazier – 85.48
3. Randy Broadway – 60.5

Click HERE to view where the teams are on the Google Map

Day 5 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 164.93 miles (11.0 mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 126.9 miles (8.46 mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 110.04 miles (7.34 mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 73.87 miles (3.47 mi/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings (thru Day 5)

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 894.71 miles (180.95/day, 30.8% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 719.87  miles (143.97 mi/day, 24.8% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 640.00 miles (128.00 mi/day, 22.0% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 556.07 miles (111.21 mi/day, 18.4% completed)

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Barry Reece (23.15 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Tom Orr (22.21 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Joshua Holmes (20.20 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Marylou Corino (13.10 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Barry Reece (SMT) – 23.15
2. Tom Orr (JPT) – 22.21
3. Heather McComb (JPT) – 21.03
4. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 20.73
5. Joshua Holmes (CTT) – 20.20
6. JR Reynolds (SMT) – 20.06
7. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 20.00
8. Jeremy Reed (CTT) – 19.13
9. Melissa Price (JPT) – 16.47
10. Elva Matamoros (CTT) – 16.03

Top 10 Race Mile Leaders

1. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 112.24
2. Heather McComb (JPT) – 106.4
3. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 103.35
4. Tom Orr (JPT) – 98.12
5. Marylou Corino – (HST) – 90.6
6. Thomas Fowler  (SMT) – 86.27
7. Kit Brazier (HST) – 85.48
8. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 85.1
9. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 82.78
10. David Nichols (SMT) – 81.08

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 5: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Stairway to Heaven
• Day 4: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – 5 Nichols & 1 Penny
• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

Day 4 of the Run It Fast ‘Race Across the USA‘ is in the books, and we are running out of adjectives to describe these endorphin crazed road warriors.  The four teams combined for a total of 605.93 miles on Thursday, the most of any of the four days of the race. Many thought coming into today that these teams, with tired legs and life on the road setting in, would have fewer miles today. That just simply wasn’t the case. More on that below.

The front of the race to this point has been dominated by the Suzy Michelson Team and today they showed out like a 21-year old woman on Tik Tok. It would be unfair to call them a broken record, because they are knocking out hit, after hit, after hit every day on the road. The Suzy’s just missed a 200-mile day coming in at 195.77 miles. This is the most single day miles, by a team, so far in the race. The team was fueled today by…everyone.

The Suzy’s were led by David ‘5’ Nichols ‘and a penny’ today who romped to 26.32 miles (and a relaxing dip in the pool). The 20-somethings didn’t stop there as motivational speaker Chris Clemens put down 25.19 miles before retiring for the night in a van down by the river. Other 20’s from the SMT were put down by Eryn Tyner (20.03) and JR Reynolds (20.11).

The Suzy’s galloped into New Mexico and are stationed currently in the town of Grants. They have completed 25.1% of the race with 729.78 miles. They sit comfortably ahead of the field with a 136-mile lead.

David Nichols is the ‘Race Across the USA’ –  Peak Performance of the Day.

The other three teams were very comparable today in the amount of miles they put down.

The Hope Shull Team, building on yesterday’s strong push, had another strong day with 129.48 miles. They have now put down strong back-to-back days that has lifted team morale. They simply refuse to roll over with the rest of the roadkill on the route. Today they were lead by Captain Marylou. She followed up yesterday’s 30-piece with 25 more miles today. She has turned it up the past two days. Again, she was joined by Kit Brazier for big miles today. Kit laid down 21.6 miles and has 79.49 miles over the last four days. Ben Herron, Cathy Downes, and Randy Broadway each went over double digit miles, as well.

HST is currently at 482.2 miles. They currently are at a Wal-Mart in Flagstaff, Arizona looking for muscle rub for Kufferath, peach pies, and sweet tea (3 teammates used the electric wheelchairs – no names were given).

The Jeffrey Price Team continues to be solid and strong. They are such a fierce and strong group just like their namesake was to so many. They lost some ground to The Suzys today, but they are in a good spot where they will be able to take advantage of any misfortune that might occur on the road ahead of them. Aaron Braunstein, left for dead on the injured list back in California, had a Lazarus awakening today coming back for 3 miles. He hobbled out of the van, Willis Reed style, then hobbled back up in the RV. ‘Mr. Climbing the Stairway to Heaven’ Tom Orr did it once again today with a remarkable 21.14 miles. His daily mile progression from the start has been 16.09, 18.39, 20.29, and 21.14 today (75.79 total). Alfa Severino stepped it up a notch with 19.07 miles for JPT.

But the MVP of the race so far for JPT has been Heather ‘Double Dime’ McComb. She knocked out her fourth consecutive day of 20+ miles with 20.13 today giving her a team leading 85.37 miles. That total is also the second most by an individual in the entire race.

JPT is currently at 592.97 miles and in 2nd place overall. On the tracking map it looks like they are in the middle of a Petrified Forest National Park in New Mexico. Many of their legs are likely feeling the same.

The Charlie Taylor Team (which we are petitioning to change to the Charlie Taylor Band) did their thing today. They increased their output over yesterday by 25 miles clipping off 137.06 miles before check-in tonight. Every single runner on the team contributed for the fourth day in a row (60-60).

They were led by Seth Crowe (22.06 mi), Tiffani Glass (20.01mi), and Joshua Holmes (18.29 mi). Crowe has been the high scorer for the team so far with 70.43 miles over the four days. Tiffani, stated that she wanted to get 10 today, but that she felt so good, with the warm sun at her back, that she just kept on running for a total of 20 miles. Jen Metcalf and Jeremy Reed also reached into double figures once again.

Steve Acciarito is currently listed on the injury report with pain on the top of his foot. He is listed as day-to-day.

CTT has completed 18.2% of the race with 529.96 miles. They sit in third place, a handful of miles just west of Winslow, Arizona.

Click HERE to view where the teams are on the Google Map

Day 4 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 195.77 miles (13.05mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 143.62 miles (9.57mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 137.06 miles (9.14mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 129.48 miles (8.63mi/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings (thru Day 4)

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 729.78 miles (182.45/day, 25.1% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 592.97  miles (148.24 mi/day, 20.4% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 529.96 miles (132.49 mi/day, 18.2% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 482.20 miles (120.55 mi/day, 16.6% completed)

 

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – David Nichols (26.32 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Tom Orr (21.14 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Seth Crowe (22.06 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Marylou Corino (25.00 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. David Nichols (SMT) – 26.32
2. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 25.19
3. Marylou Corino (HST) – 25.00
4. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 22.06
5. Kit Brazier (HST) – 21.6
6. Tom Orr (JPT) – 21.14
7. Heather McComb (JPT) – 20.13
8. JR Reynolds (SMT) – 20.11
9. Eryn Tyner (SMT) – 20.03
10. Tiffani Glass (CTT) – 20.01

Top 10 Race Mile Leaders

1. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 91.51
2. Heather McComb (JPT) – 85.37
3. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 80.2
4. Kit Brazier (HST) – 79.49
5. Marylou Corino – (HST) – 77.5
6. Tom Orr (JPT) – 75.91
7. David Nichols (SMT) – 74.65
8. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 70.96
9. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 70.43
10. Thomas Fowler  (SMT) – 70.26

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 4: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – 5 Nichols & 1 Penny
• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

Arizona is on fire as the four teams in the Run It Fast ‘Race Across the USA‘ blazed across ‘The Grand Canyon State’ razing up ruts of asphalt on their way towards Flagstaff and beyond for one team.

The story of the day came from the back of the field as the Hope Shull Team laid down 149.88 miles after their lackluster 94.79 miles the day before. The 149.88 also topped their Day 1 mark of 108.5 miles. HST had the second most team miles for the day. This team was led by Kit Brazier and team captain Marylou Corino. Brazier’s miles from the day before came in after check-in last night. So they were included in today’s total along with another big run she put down. They totaled a whopping 39.65 miles.

Marylou put down two 15 spots today for 30.39 miles. One of the highest single day totals of the event. It was an inspirational push that has inspired her team to realize that they have a chance in this contest.  Hope’s team finished the day a few miles past Kingman, Arizona having been led by two queens.

The double-headed dragon performances from Marylou Corino and Kit Brazier are the ‘Race Across the USA’ –  Peak Performances of the Day.

The Jeffrey Price Team was strong once again today. They were down a bit mileage from yesterday’s high, but they topped their Day 1 total by a couple of miles. They had a large number of runners knock out double digit runs. Their biggest drama today was fighting each other to get out of the van, and back on the road, each runner wanting to pound more pavement. This team is really pushing each other at a very high level.

The break out star of the entire race so far has been JPT’s Tom Orr. Tom’s been building a mileage stairway to heaven over the first three days with totals of 16.09, 18.39, and 20.29. He is the ‘McFeely-Good’ story of the race so far.  ‘Double-Dime’ Heather McComb once again knocked out 20+ miles. Over the first 3 days of the event she has 65.24 miles. Karl Studtmann was strong again today running 20.16 miles, while, at the same time, taking 17 telemedicine calls (and nine from Leslie).

The team camped out atop Bill Williams Mountain in Williams, Arizona tonight at 6,765 feet. The West Tennesseans on the team kept referring to it as Mt Everest. JPT’s biggest mistake of the day was letting David ‘Smokeless’ Oglesby attempt to build the campfire. After a ‘loud’ text message from his wife Melissa, back in Tennessee, ‘500K Dave’ finally relented and let Donna Burns get the fire going. Jeffrey’s team finished the day with 144.16 miles, 2nd place overall and built upon their lead over third.

The Charlie Taylor Team had participation from all 15 members again today. The only team to have ‘perfect attendance’ over the first three days. The team had no massive-mile stars today, but everyone was solid with five reaching double-digits led by team captain Joshua Holmes‘ 13 miles. They finished the day with 112.5 miles just short of Seligman, Arizona. The team is healthy and sticking with their consistent, all-hands-on-deck approach. They remain in third place overall.

The Suzy Michelson Team fell off slightly today, but they still put down the most miles of Day 3 with 160.2 miles powered by five 20-mile days from Barry Reece, Captain Shane Tucker, Alex Barrientos, David Nichols, and led by Chris Clemens‘ 25.77 miles. Reece hit the 20-mile mark for the 3rd consecutive day. Kimberly Atkins added a half marathon+ after her 26.22 miles yesterday. This team has the most heavy hitters. If they can stay healthy, they will be tough to beat.

The team finished the day in Winslow.  A few minutes later, Mission Control received the following message from Clemens:

“Well, I’m a standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona
And such a fine sight to see
It’s a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford
Slowin’ down to take a look at me”

Captain  Tucker made sure to pay for the rooms in cash and not put a credit card down for incidentals.

Hopefully the team is taking it easy, having a good night on the town, and safely asleep by now.  The SMT may lose, or they might win, but it’s sure they will never be here again.

The Suzy Michelson Team remains in the overall lead with 534.01 miles covered for the race.

Day 3 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 160.2 miles (10.68mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 144.16 miles (9.61mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 112.5 miles (7.50mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 149.88 miles (9.99/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings (thru Day 3)

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 534.01 miles (178.00/day, 18.4% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 449.25  miles (149.78 mi/day, 15.5% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 392.9 miles (130.97 mi/day, 13.5% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 352.72 miles (117.57 mi/day, 12.1% completed)

 

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Chris Clemens (25.77 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Heather McComb (21.1 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Joshua Holmes (13.0 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Kit Brazier (39.65 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Kit Brazier (HST) – 39.65
2. Marylou Corino (HST) – 30.00
3. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 25.77
4. Heather McComb (JPT) – 21.10
5. David Nichols (SMT) – 20.53
6. Tom Orr (JPT) – 20.29
7. Shane Tucker (SMT) – 20.25
8. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 20.23
9. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 20.16
10. Barry Reece (SMT) – 19.98

Top 11 Race Mile Leaders

1. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 69.0
2. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 66.32
3. Heather McComb (JPT) – 65.24
4. Kit Brazier (HST) – 57.89
5. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 56.78
6. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 55.56
7. Tom Orr (JPT) – 54.77
8. Thomas Fowler  (SMT) – 54.23
9. Marylou Corino – (HST) – 52.5
10. Randy Broadway (HST) – 50.0
11. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 49.91

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 3: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Razing Arizona
• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

The Run It Fast ‘Race Across the USA‘ relay continued to move eastward on Day 2 with the Suzy Michelson Team starting the day with a comfortable lead over the Jeffrey Price Team. But is that how the day ended? Who made it to Arizona and who didn’t? Who was the star performer of the day? All those answers await you below!

Day 2 saw 56 of the 60 runners put down a total of 596.0 miles. Amazingly that is 30 miles more than these four teams aggressively, on fresh legs, put down yesterday on Day 1. Every runner on the Charlie Taylor Team and Suzy Michelson Team once again put down miles today maintaining ‘perfect attendance’ of their team members over the first 48 hours of the race.

The Charlie Taylor Team’s Seth Crowe left the Crowe’s Nest late, last night for a run, only to return home, and leave it for four more runs today. Amidst cold temps and rain, Seth kept Crowe, Crowe, Crowe’ing his leggy-boat aggressively down the street. A throw-back Flintstonian who easily averaged more miles with his legs today than his beat-up Chevy pickup can garner coasting downhill with a full load.

A man on a mission with five runs of of 10.07, 10.31, 12.0, 3.0, and 2.01 for a total of 37.39 miles. Seth is the Race Across the USA Performance of the Day.

Kimberly Atkins impressed her team (SMT) and competition by walking 26.22 miles today in the brrr, brrr, bodiddley, frigid cold. An impressive feat for sure.

While Georgia native Heather McComb (JPT) knocked our her second consecutive 20+ mile day with 24.12 miles for a total of 44.14 miles over the first 2 days. Barry Reece (SMT) did the same as well with 22.0 miles (49.02/2 day total).

Other big mile stars from Day 2 included Chris Clemens (SMT) 25.55 mi, Randy Broadway (HST) 21.0 mi, and 8x Badwater 135 veteran, Karla Kent (JPT) 22.58 mi.

Day 2 Mileage Results of the Race Across the USA

• Suzy Michelson Team – 184.84 miles (12.32mi/runner)
• Jeffrey Price Team – 162.9 miles (10.86mi/runner)
• Charlie Taylor Team – 153.47 miles (10.23mi/runner)
• Hope Shull Team – 94.79 miles (6.32mi/runner)

RIF’s Race Across the USA Overall Standings (thru Day 2)

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 373.81 miles (186.91mi/day, 12.8% completed)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 305.19 miles (152.60mi/day, 10.5% completed)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 280.4 miles (140.20mi/day, 9.7% completed)
4. Hope Shull Team – 202.84 miles (101.42mi/day, 7.0% completed)

The Suzy Michelson Team kept unleashing big run after big run and made it to Needles, AZ before midday. They kept the pedal down with three team members going for 20+ miles and a total of seven in double digits. They gathered 184.84 miles on Day 2, almost matching their impressive Day 1 total of 188.97. The Suzy’s have now set their sight on making it to Flagstaff, AZ tomorrow. If the lactic acid in their legs and the high altitude getting to Flagstaff doesn’t slow them tomorrow then nothing might.

A member of another team was peddling a rumor around that Chris Clemens was trying to talk his team into a ‘quick’ detour north of Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon for a quick R2R2R out and back. Whether true or fake news, SMT captain Shane Tucker will use his school room laser focus and discipline to keep his team on track.

The Jeffrey Price Team was one of two teams to put down more miles on Day 2. JPT ended the day with 162.9 miles, which topped their Day 1 total by over 20 miles. They kept thinking they could see the SMT far in the distance, and it kept them a churning. However, that dry arid air, and desert landscape was likely creating a mirage that didn’t match reality, because they finished the day in a strong second place with 305.19 miles but a big 68.62 mile gulp behind the SMT.  They did increase their lead over the third place team by +9 miles.

Team Note: Aaron Braunstein has been placed on the Disabled List with a calf issue. His status is Day-to-Day.

The Charlie Taylor Team spent most of the day with bedazzled eyes after Seth Crowe put down his 5-run performance of 37.39 miles. But later in the afternoon, the team kicked into gear as every member once again put down miles including strong double digits from Steve Acciarito, Tiffani Glass, Jeremy Reed, Elva Matamoros, and Joshua Holmes. The team’s strength so far has been it’s consistency and snacks. Steve has taken it upon himself after his morning runs to make sure everyone’s nutrition is on point. He has dubbed himself the ‘Snack Coach.’ Say what you will but multiple cups of chocolate pudding has kept this team from boinking and also from putting down more miles than they need to this early. Luckily the team RV is always nearby as the desert is barren and mostly treeless during this stage of the race. They finished the day with 153.47 miles, a +26 mile jump over yesterday. This gives them a total of 280.4 miles solidly ahead of the HST and still within reach of the JPT.

That leaves the Hope Shull Team. Let’s just say the Cracker Barrel hangover is not a myth. The HST was sluggish from the start today. Some pundits worried HST would come out too aggressive today trying to chase down the other teams to try to erase the early deficit they amassed yesterday. By 10am, no one had that worry any more. By noon, team captain Marylou Corino said something that we can’t repeat here. But she theorized that if they stopped for lunch at the Cracker Barrel, in Needles, Arizona, that it would somehow reverse the curse, hangover, or whatever. She was probably just hungry. The team did bond over lunch, soothed some egos, and put down respectable miles in the afternoon. This included double digits from Ben Herron, Rachael Anderson, Randy Broadway, and Marylou. They only ran with 12 runners today and that for sure played a factor. They finished the day with 94.79 miles and are a good bit back of the pack, but there is thousands of miles of race to go. Their stated goal is to make it to Kingman, AZ tomorrow night.

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Kimberly Atkins (26.22 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Heather McComb (24.12 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Seth Crowe (37.39 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Randy Broadway (21.0 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Seth Crowe (CMT) – 37.39
2. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 26.22
3. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 25.55
4. Heather McComb (JPT) – 24.12
5. Karla Kent (JPT) – 22.58
6. Barry Reece (SMT) – 22.00
7. Randy Broadway (HST) – 21.0
8. Tom Orr (JPT) – 18.39
9. David Nichols (SMT) – 17.75
10. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 16.35

Top 10 Race Mile Leaders

1. Barry Reece  (SMT) – 49.2
2. Thomas Fowler  (SMT) – 46.2
3. Heather McComb (JPT) – 44.14
4. Chris Clemens (SMT) – 40.55
5. Seth Crowe (CTT) – 39.46
6. Karl Studtmann (JPT) – 36.62
7. Jeremy Reed (CTT) – 36.31
8. Kimberly Atkins (SMT) – 36.25
9. Alex Barrientos (SMT) – 35.33
10. Randy Broadway (HST) – 35.0

Daily Updates and Standings Archive

• Day 2: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – Showdown in the Desert 
• Day 1: Run It Fast’s Race Across the USA – And They Are Off…

The Run It Fast ‘Race Across the USA‘ relay got off to an amazing start today. It was almost as if all four teams were shot out of a cannon from the Santa Monica Pier towards the East Coast.

All four team’s eager to run in the newly minted ‘smog-less’ Los Angeles air, took off like 7-year old’s at a 5K with ill-regard to pacing or exactly where they were headed (more on that below).

Day 1 saw a remarkable 57 of the 60 runners put down a total of 566.24 miles. Every runner on the Charlie Taylor Team and Suzy Michelson Team put down miles today.

Jeremy Reed, of the Charlie Taylor Team, set the tone immediately, not just his team, but everyone in the race, when at 12:01 am he laid down a strong 12.0 mile run. He followed it up later in the day with a 11-mile piece.

But the big-mileage stars of the day were Barry Reece (27.02 mi) and Thomas Fowler (31 mi) from the Suzy Michelson Team.

Other heavy hitters from day one included Alex Barrientos (SMT – 20.05 mi), Jeremy Reed (CTT – 22.11), Heather McComb (JPT – 20.02), and Karl Studtmann (JPT – 20.27).

Our youngest runner, Juleann Roberts (HST) put down 7.02 miles.

RIF’s Race Across the USA Standings (Day 1)

1. Suzy Michelson Team – 188.97 miles (12.6mi/r)
2. Jeffrey Price Team – 142.29 miles (9.49mi/r)
3. Charlie Taylor Team – 126.93 miles (8.46mi/r)
4. Hope Shull Team – 108.05 miles (7.20mi/r)

Now the good stuff. Where exactly are the teams after Day 1?

Well, they might be at a convenient care by Thursday, but the Suzy Michelson Team, with smoke still on their soles, is currently at 188.97 miles. They are halfway between Barstow, CA and Needles, AZ resting at a Motel 6 for the night. No word yet if they set an alarm or not.

Next down the road is the Jeffrey Price Team at 142.29 miles. They are about 15 miles past Barstow on I-40 with hopes to get to Needles tomorrow and close the gap with the SMT.

The Charlie Taylor Team currently sits in 3rd, with 126.93 miles, and is also sitting at a honky-tonk in Barstow just as Charlie would have insisted. They appear to be well lubricated for the road ahead tomorrow. No word if they will start back from the honky-tonk around 3am or attempt sleep somewhere.

If the Hope Shull Team is telling their family and friends they are in fourth place then they are probably be congratulated proudly by them for being in 4th. Hopefully, they didn’t finish the sentence with, “…out of four teams.”

More detail could be added, but to get straight to the point for Hope’s Team, a wrong turn just off the I-10 ‘mare’ miles into the race led to a quick detour to Gus’s Fried Chicken. Once there the team refueled on chess pie, sweet tea, and chicken. They also used the opportunity to study the map and refocus on how to get back on the correct route. They did finish the day strong and made up a good bit of lost time. They finished the day with 108.05 miles and are near Bell Mountain which is just past Victorville, CA. Victorville is the site of the first Cracker Barrel in CA that opened just two years ago. Marylou insisted the team finish with a team meal there before retiring for the night a couple miles on down the road.

Team Mileage Leader of the Day

• Suzy Michelson Team – Thomas Fowler (31.01 mi)
• Jeffrey Price Team – Karl Studtmann (20.27 mi)
• Charlie Taylor Team – Jeremy Reed (22.11 mi)
• Hope Shull Team – Kit Brazier (18.24 mi)

Top 10 Mega-Miles of the Day

1. Thomas Fowler – 31.01 (SMT)
2. Barry Reece – 27.02 (SMT)
3. Jeremy Reed – 22.11 (CTT)
4. Karl Studtmann – 20.27 (JPT)
5. Alex Barrientos – 20.05 (SMT)
6. Heather McComb – 20.02 (JPT)
7. Kit Brazier – 18.24 (HST)
8. Tom Orr – 16.09 (JPT)
9. Chris Clemens – 15.00 (SMT)
10. Randy Broadway – 14.00 (HST)

A long way to go, but it was a wonderful start to the Race Across the USA Relay.