This past Saturday, February 25, 2017, Eric and I had the distinct privilege to represent PANDA ON! to the MyTeam TriumphGa** Captains, Angels and volunteers when we attended the Mardi Gras Madness 5K-10K race in Columbus, Georgia.
A totally random December conversation in a Macon Starbucks put us on the path to find out more about this group. After seeing the pictures from the previous year’s event and witnessing all the smiles and good time had my everyone, Eric and I knew we had to participate in this worthwhile event.
The cold morning, raging wind and rain, tried, but absolutely could not dampened the hearts, mind or bodies entering the race. There were several runners and participants, representing many different organizations, but my eyes and heart focused on one group – MyTeam TriumphGa. First of all, let me say, all the families were there before Eric and I arrived. And we were there before 8. The actual race didn’t start until 9:30 a.m.! This one thing alone says so much about the good and purpose of this organization. The heart of the Captains, the challenged athletes, were steady and ready for what the day would bring. No matter what would come, there is no doubt these Captains would face it with fortitude and brilliance. I believe it was their smiles and pure will that moved the grey clouds out of the way and beckoned the radiance of the beaming sunshine as they, with their Angels, crossed the finish line.
The Captains are just one part of what makes this organization not only work, but truly shine. The other part are the Angels and volunteers. Eric and I enjoyed getting to meet the Angel Runners who would bring their Captains safely across the finish line. Each Captain had about three Angel Runners who made up each team. It was evident from their unbridled enthusiasm, the Angels had been long anticipating the opportunity to work with each Captain, meet their families and give their best to the race.
This was not the first race for any of the Captains, who ranged in age from 37 years old to 5 years old. And from the smiles on their faces as they each crossed the finish line, this will not be their last. 
It was an honor to attend this race and meet the MyTeam Triumph Captains, Angels and Volunteers. Eric and I considered it a privilege and honor to give each Captain a PEP, Purple-Eyed Panda, and see their smiles as Eric donned the PEP costume. Of course, my heart rehearsed every name of the ones who donated a PEP. You may not have been there in person to see all the smiles, feel the hugs and experience the love, but you were there in spirit. Again, I am so thankful to all who have donated a PEP to help make events like this happen. I am awed by this journey with PANDA ON! We are meeting people and going places we never dreamed. We remain humbled in heart as we remember each of the Captains. Amanda, Kendall and Mary Claire, you are truly inspiring. It was a pleasure to meet you and your loving families. We wish you the best as you continue to impact lives with your sweet smiles and loving hearts.
**MyTeam Triumph is a national organization who helps disabled persons participate in races, giving them the guarantee of crossing the finish line. The Captains, with their team of Angels, experience the rush of race competition and endurance while building toward the glory of seeing their families and friends cheering them in as they cross the finish line. What a wonderful way to share in each other’s lives while raising funds for those who need it most.
To learn more about this wonderful organization please click the link below:
PANDA ON! Blog 