Posted by DEAN SKIP RUTHERFORD – First, we at the Clinton School offer our deepest sympathy to the family of Adam Nickel, 27, of Madison, Wis., who collapsed and died after finishing today’s Little Rock Marathon. Our thoughts are certainly with his family and friends. From all reports, he was a terrific young person and a gifted athlete. It is a tragic loss.
Ten Clinton School students plus staffer Joe Ballard participated. Some of the Clinton School participants competed (and finished) in spite of battling recent illnesses. The marathon began in the downtown River Market area on President Clinton Avenue. From Clinton Avenue runners turned on Dean Kumpuris Street and ran by the Clinton School.
Penleope Sur, Ryan Lewis, Lindsey Clark, Jay Thompson, Lukman Arsalan, Julie West, Russ Swearingen and Hunter Riley successfully completed the half-marathon.
Molly Brunkow, James Mitchell and Joe Ballard were part of a relay team which also crossed the finish line. Congratulations all.
In addition, several Clinton school students and staff were among the thousands lining the streets offering support. Before attending church this morning, I watched for a while as runners made their way along Kavanaugh Blvd. in the Hillcrest area of the city.
Special congratulations to 11-year-old Edouard Sur, son of Penelope Sur, who finished first among 1,200 youngsters competing in the Kid’s Marathon. That’s a significant accomplishment.
Kudos to all who participated, and thanks to all who supported. A special thanks to the City of Little Rock, the Parks and Recreation Department and the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau for making the Marathon possible.