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Namib Race Blogs 2009
10
PostsNamib Race (2009) blog posts from George Chmiel Jr
02 November 2009 06:19 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
I wanted to thank everyone again for your love and unbelievably generous support over the last four months. It was a big source of strength for me during those low points when giving up and throwing in the towel seemed like the prudent thing to do. Outside of seeing my father (hopefully soon) officially retire after 40+ years of incredible service to this country and raising my own family one day I doubt anything could ever top this experience for me. When I mentioned the idea to the Horvath's and Magic a while back we hoped we'd make a difference but at the time had no idea what that really meant. So we all started working towards a goal. But then something truly remarkable happened...a family was born. A family of dreamers...a family of givers...a family of people who care more about each other than they do about themselves. In today's often cold world I never thought something like this was possible and to see that birth first hand is a gift. In the end...not only did we have tremendous success as we approach $60,000 raised for the MAGIC Foundation...and not only did we have tremendous success in improving awareness for these crucial growth-related disorders...but most importantly we proved that the human spirit is fundamentally decent and that if everyone gives a little more and digs a little deeper from time to time the world can and will be a much better place.
For me personally, there are two life lessons I'll take away from this experience. One - there is nothing on this planet stronger than the heart of a volunteer. And that's exactly what we had here...hundreds if not thousands of volunteers all lending a helping hand contributing in different ways and creating something that became so much bigger than the sum of its individual parts. I feel blessed to have been a part of it and am excited to see what we can all accomplish together in the future. Secondly, the limits placed on the human body are self-imposed and meant to be broken. There are no boundaries. What we all accomplished here is living proof of that and no one can ever take it away from us. How are we ever supposed to reach that next level if we constantly settle for what is already attainable? In all fascets of life there is another level and then another level and then another level. There are probably infinite levels. But if your heart is strong...if your spirit's full of believe and your mind full of determination...you can and will get there.
The final leg was cut short due to security concerns in Giza so we ended up having an untimed 2k run around the sphinx and the pyramids to a camel-lined finish. While we were all looking forward to racing it out, considering the shape of our bodies a nice little victory stroll around one of the seven ancient wonders of the world was more than sufficient for us. It was with a great sense of pride, humility and passion that I crossed the finish line in 5th place representing the greatest nation in the world.
To put it bluntly this experience was life-changing and makes me want to strive to do more. After crashing at the finish line of stage 5 and swearing I'd never run again after this race I'm already itching with desire to get back out there and tackle the next big challenge. And there's no one else I'd consider supporting than the beautiful and courageous Luci Horvath, The Magic Foundation and all the friends and families on here that gave me the fuel I needed to cross the finish line when the easy thing to do would've been to quit.
For me personally, there are two life lessons I'll take away from this experience. One - there is nothing on this planet stronger than the heart of a volunteer. And that's exactly what we had here...hundreds if not thousands of volunteers all lending a helping hand contributing in different ways and creating something that became so much bigger than the sum of its individual parts. I feel blessed to have been a part of it and am excited to see what we can all accomplish together in the future. Secondly, the limits placed on the human body are self-imposed and meant to be broken. There are no boundaries. What we all accomplished here is living proof of that and no one can ever take it away from us. How are we ever supposed to reach that next level if we constantly settle for what is already attainable? In all fascets of life there is another level and then another level and then another level. There are probably infinite levels. But if your heart is strong...if your spirit's full of believe and your mind full of determination...you can and will get there.
The final leg was cut short due to security concerns in Giza so we ended up having an untimed 2k run around the sphinx and the pyramids to a camel-lined finish. While we were all looking forward to racing it out, considering the shape of our bodies a nice little victory stroll around one of the seven ancient wonders of the world was more than sufficient for us. It was with a great sense of pride, humility and passion that I crossed the finish line in 5th place representing the greatest nation in the world.
To put it bluntly this experience was life-changing and makes me want to strive to do more. After crashing at the finish line of stage 5 and swearing I'd never run again after this race I'm already itching with desire to get back out there and tackle the next big challenge. And there's no one else I'd consider supporting than the beautiful and courageous Luci Horvath, The Magic Foundation and all the friends and families on here that gave me the fuel I needed to cross the finish line when the easy thing to do would've been to quit.
30 October 2009 03:32 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
Sitting in this tent at 9:00am local time feeling awful but so full of emotions and absolutely blown away by what weve all been able to achieve here. Other competitors are joking with me bc we receive the comments each day on an excel doc (no internet access) and Im receiving close to 1/3rd of the comments for all the competitors in the entire race. The support has been overwhelming and whenever they set up the cybertent Im sprinting over here (albeit awkwardly with a limp) to read them ASAP. So thanks everyone again for the unreal support.
First off...this race is beyond insane. It has been exponentially harder than I ever imagined it could be in my worst nightmares. The heat out here is suffocating and relentless...knocking competitors out every day. If the 5-8 mile stretches of super soft sand doesnt put you under than the intense up/down hill climbes on the rocks can surely deliver the death blow as you slice your feet open. Your pack pounds on you every day, wearing you down and sapping you of your strength. And on top of that, everyone is dehydrated, everyone is behind on calories, and everyones legs are so blown out after the second day that we are all running at a fraction of top speed. A couple of the faster runners here (1:15 half marathon times as a proxy) that can really burn it have done great on one or a couple of the stages but have succombed to the elements at one point or another. And with that...all the time/effort/sacrifice over the last months and years goes out the window with the DQ. You cant afford a bad day and you cant give in just once and thats the biggest challenge. But what we have working for us is the unbelievable unity between the competitors, the race staff/organizers, the locals and everyone else associated with this world class event. And without this teammwork I highly doubt anyone gets this thing done. This whole experience has been so vast trying to put it in words does it zero justice.
So for yesterday: They decided to do a stagerred start for the final stage sending the peloton out at 6:00am and the top 16 out at 9:00am. So by the time our day started it was really hot. My game plan was simple. To run as much of the 55miles as I possibly could. And to do that...I had to be very careful in the heat of the day. So I came out of the blocks 10/16 and planned to stay there most of the first 20 miles just running strong 10:30 min/miles on fairly flat terrain. Biding my time. The terrain was mostly a flat plateau looking out in every direction that seemed to have no end. About 22 miles or so in, there was a glimpse of green in the distance. As I got closer you could start making out palm trees. This wasnt just an oasis, it was the El Ris Oasis that seemed to extend for miles in every direction as far as the eye could see. The water of life and an entire village supported by it. You had to descend about 1500 feet down a mountain off the bluff to get there. So fired up by the site I ran down that thing at almost a full sprint. At the bottom there were about 12-15 little African children waiting for us and cheering us on. I grabbed a little boy and little girls hand and ran a couple hundred yards with them. Obviously we couldnt understand each other but we were singing and dancing. The little boy then pointed up at my ear, I thought he wanted to see my earphones but of course he was motioning for my ridiculous red/yellow sunglasses. I gave them to him a gift and received a huge hug back in return. That moment is probably what Ill remember most from this journey.
After getting to checkpoint four and coming down off that high I crashed hard. The next six miles were all dunes/soft sand at the heat of the day. I had to do the run/walk and save whatever energy I had left. After being passed by Ash/Martin and a few other competitors I was feeling beaten. I managed to struggle to checkpoint five knowing I have been on the course for over 6 hours and still had over another marathon to run. This was my time to turn it around. Even though I felt sick I forced down another terrible granola packaged meal and a cliff bar and took a boatload of electrolytes. The time was now.
With the sun starting to get lower and the temperature cooling off some I managed to find another gear. I dont know how but I mentally forced the lactic acid buildup to go away with my adrenaline rush and I started cruising in the push for home. From miles 32 - 54 no one was faster than me on the entire course. I flew past Tobias (leader heading into the stage who was having heat issues). I caught Ash about 10 miles down the course and Martin about 15 miles down the course and didnt even pick my head up. One of the coolest moments of my life being in the absolute zone just driving for home and feeling no pain 10 hours deep. Did have a brief scare as I hit checkpoint seven and realized my electrolytes and light sources had fallen out of my pack but I kept rolling until I found another competitor to borrow a headlamp from. In typical fashion, the racingtheplanet organizers didnt make it easy on us placing the camp site at the top of a massive steep sand dune. I ferociously crawled up it on all fours while gasping for air. There it was, the finish line. Today there were no war cries. I passed it and collapsed head first in the sand. I had been running so beyond my limits for so long on pure adrenaline that my body immediately caught up. The med staff brought me over to the tent and I shivered/shaked/sweated profusely for the next few hours. Ive never gone into shock but if this wasnt it was pretty damm close.
With all that I completed the Black Desert March in 11:22 (4hrs 38mins ahead of my goal) finishing 6th on the day and finishing in the top-5 overall for the competition. Get ready Luci - Uncle George has a pretty cool present coming home for you!
First off...this race is beyond insane. It has been exponentially harder than I ever imagined it could be in my worst nightmares. The heat out here is suffocating and relentless...knocking competitors out every day. If the 5-8 mile stretches of super soft sand doesnt put you under than the intense up/down hill climbes on the rocks can surely deliver the death blow as you slice your feet open. Your pack pounds on you every day, wearing you down and sapping you of your strength. And on top of that, everyone is dehydrated, everyone is behind on calories, and everyones legs are so blown out after the second day that we are all running at a fraction of top speed. A couple of the faster runners here (1:15 half marathon times as a proxy) that can really burn it have done great on one or a couple of the stages but have succombed to the elements at one point or another. And with that...all the time/effort/sacrifice over the last months and years goes out the window with the DQ. You cant afford a bad day and you cant give in just once and thats the biggest challenge. But what we have working for us is the unbelievable unity between the competitors, the race staff/organizers, the locals and everyone else associated with this world class event. And without this teammwork I highly doubt anyone gets this thing done. This whole experience has been so vast trying to put it in words does it zero justice.
So for yesterday: They decided to do a stagerred start for the final stage sending the peloton out at 6:00am and the top 16 out at 9:00am. So by the time our day started it was really hot. My game plan was simple. To run as much of the 55miles as I possibly could. And to do that...I had to be very careful in the heat of the day. So I came out of the blocks 10/16 and planned to stay there most of the first 20 miles just running strong 10:30 min/miles on fairly flat terrain. Biding my time. The terrain was mostly a flat plateau looking out in every direction that seemed to have no end. About 22 miles or so in, there was a glimpse of green in the distance. As I got closer you could start making out palm trees. This wasnt just an oasis, it was the El Ris Oasis that seemed to extend for miles in every direction as far as the eye could see. The water of life and an entire village supported by it. You had to descend about 1500 feet down a mountain off the bluff to get there. So fired up by the site I ran down that thing at almost a full sprint. At the bottom there were about 12-15 little African children waiting for us and cheering us on. I grabbed a little boy and little girls hand and ran a couple hundred yards with them. Obviously we couldnt understand each other but we were singing and dancing. The little boy then pointed up at my ear, I thought he wanted to see my earphones but of course he was motioning for my ridiculous red/yellow sunglasses. I gave them to him a gift and received a huge hug back in return. That moment is probably what Ill remember most from this journey.
After getting to checkpoint four and coming down off that high I crashed hard. The next six miles were all dunes/soft sand at the heat of the day. I had to do the run/walk and save whatever energy I had left. After being passed by Ash/Martin and a few other competitors I was feeling beaten. I managed to struggle to checkpoint five knowing I have been on the course for over 6 hours and still had over another marathon to run. This was my time to turn it around. Even though I felt sick I forced down another terrible granola packaged meal and a cliff bar and took a boatload of electrolytes. The time was now.
With the sun starting to get lower and the temperature cooling off some I managed to find another gear. I dont know how but I mentally forced the lactic acid buildup to go away with my adrenaline rush and I started cruising in the push for home. From miles 32 - 54 no one was faster than me on the entire course. I flew past Tobias (leader heading into the stage who was having heat issues). I caught Ash about 10 miles down the course and Martin about 15 miles down the course and didnt even pick my head up. One of the coolest moments of my life being in the absolute zone just driving for home and feeling no pain 10 hours deep. Did have a brief scare as I hit checkpoint seven and realized my electrolytes and light sources had fallen out of my pack but I kept rolling until I found another competitor to borrow a headlamp from. In typical fashion, the racingtheplanet organizers didnt make it easy on us placing the camp site at the top of a massive steep sand dune. I ferociously crawled up it on all fours while gasping for air. There it was, the finish line. Today there were no war cries. I passed it and collapsed head first in the sand. I had been running so beyond my limits for so long on pure adrenaline that my body immediately caught up. The med staff brought me over to the tent and I shivered/shaked/sweated profusely for the next few hours. Ive never gone into shock but if this wasnt it was pretty damm close.
With all that I completed the Black Desert March in 11:22 (4hrs 38mins ahead of my goal) finishing 6th on the day and finishing in the top-5 overall for the competition. Get ready Luci - Uncle George has a pretty cool present coming home for you!
Comments: Total (134) comments
Posted On: 02 Nov 2009 09:50 am
Unreal. You are our hero. God bless!
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 12:37 pm
George, With your determination and will and the "I WILL DO THIS AND BE A WINNER" no doubt "Georgie Chmiel" attitude you did it!! Boy, we are all very proud of you. Cannot wait to start the pub marathon with you!! CONGRATULATION!!!!!
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 05:14 am
George, My family and I have been following your progress during your journey of support for Luci and the kids and families of The Magic Foundation. All of us however; have been watching from the comfort of our homes. You left your comfort zone to accomplish something so extraordinary that only a tiny fraction of us walking this earth could ever do. Over the years of my association with Magic I have seen the personal strength of our kids and their families endlessly displayed with courage and dignity. Your success mirrors the lives of our kids and I am proud to have you as a member of our Magic family. Come home safely and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Rich Buckley, Board Chairman, The Magic Foundation
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 03:31 am
George,
The first thing I did this Halloween was check on you! We are super proud of you, not only did you come in 5th place , 1st American ,and youngest in your age group but you made such a huge impact on all Magic families. You raised awareness all around the world . Not many people would have made such a sacrifice to make awareness. Luci and Magic families are lucky to have you in our lives. We welcome you with open arms to our Magic family , we are not letting you go, your officially one of us!
We love you George our Magic Super Hero.
Have a safe trip home
Much Love and Thanks from NYC
Faith ,Frank and Alexis ( GHD and IGF1)
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 02:29 am
George,
Courage, honesty, bravery, selflessness and the will to try are just a few of the overlooked qualities of a hero. You are truly a hero! I once read that being a hero cannot be explained in words but it must be internalized and given a story to come alive. Georgie, you told your story! The world has heard your story! You reached your goals! You are an inspiration to us all! We love you! Karen, Kaylee and Zach
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 12:30 am
WC, Incredible, man. Incredible. I was so proud to see you at the finish line with that American flag. Great job. Get home safely.
Posted On: 01 Nov 2009 12:03 am
George, you are amazing! It has been so much fun to watch your progress all week. If you had finished even one stage I would have been impressed, but to finish all of them--AND come in 5th overall--WOW! To say thanks doesn't seem like enough to recognize your accomplishment on behalf of MAGIC children and families! Have a safe trip home!
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 11:44 pm
Congratulations on finishing 1st in your age group 20-29 and better yet, 5th overall!!! Its a good thing you aren't 30, haha. In all seriousness bro, you have showed yet again that hard work pays off. You have put so much into this entire journey and aside from Mama and Papa Chmiel, no one could be more proud of you than I am. Everyone back in the old stomping grounds has been praying and pulling for you daily, with most refreshing the site every 15 or so minutes. Personally, I am just glad you put up a good number, as I would have given you a hard time if you didn't!
USA!! USA!! USA!! There is nobody else we could think of to represent our country. You are an inspiration to everyone who knows you and I have never been more proud to be your best friend!!
Congrats in your training, journey and accomplishment!
The new slogan for America will read: In GGC We Trust!!
PS: BC won today!
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 07:24 pm
Georgia - The California Yabos are all so amazed and befuddled by your accomplishment. We all knew you were a little nuts but this one takes the cake! Congratulations! You're tough beyond measure. Hope to see you soon on a West Coast trip. Best,
Julie Y.
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 05:34 pm
Wow man, Wow. I'm trying to imagine what you just did must have been like physically and mentally, but I can't get close. Barry Sanders could never have done that! You da man.
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 04:29 pm
I am in awe. Running eight marathons in two years is more than one is supposed to do, but 155 miles in seven days in the Sahara Desert... four marathons followed by a double marathon on consecutive days... carrying a backpack... well, I was pulling for you and greatful simply knowing that you were doing it for Luci.
Reading your story each day was captivating. Your strength and perseverence are more than average humans can imagine, and truly inspiring. I can understand how all the comments from your now greatly extended family helped prepare you for each day's challenge. And I agree with many others that you are a superhero to all the Magic kids and their families, but especialy to Luci. While reading about those times you were in pain, drained of energy and having thoughts of not continuing, I sensed that Luci helped you push through.
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing this adventure and lesson in human endurance, spirit and caring to all those you have touched. The fact that you finished 5th overall, top American and first in your age group are icing on the cake, and you should be proud.
Diane and I look forward to meeting you some day to say thank you in person.
Luci's Grandpa
Roger Therrien
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 03:22 pm
I assume you're on the bus to Cairo now, though they have not posted the final stage results.
So many congrats on your accomplishment! It has been a joy and an inspiration to watch the blogs and stage times throughout the week.
You should feel truly awesome about your dedication and execution.
We'll see you back in Boston tomorrow!
Best to you bro....
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 11:02 am
George, clearly, you are an inspiration. Well before the trials of the desert and the glory of finishing so well, you inspired people to give. Reading the other comments posted, I know that many of your friends and supporters will take their own actions - in their own ways - to support MAGIC and all suffering with growth hormone disorders.
You just can't realize how much good you have initiated in the world. Even without knowing you, we are extremely proud of and humbled by your accomplishments on all levels.
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 05:19 am
George - you give a new meaning to the phrase "can do". Your achievement is motivational on so many levels. Thank you from all of us in the MAGIC "community".
Have a safe and comfortable flight back homeand get some well deserved rest! You might want to make an appointment with a shrink when you wake up though - lots of good ones in Boston!
Health, peace and happiness - Tori (Mom to Jillianage 7 with RSS)
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 05:01 am
Chm... Dan, Terra, J and I miss you here at home. 14.5 can't wait for you to get back to Boston! Thank you for one of the most stressful and amazing weeks of our lives. It seems like forever ago that we move into this house, watched you train for this race. and packed you up to go. Now we just want you back here and in one piece so the celebration can begin! Congrats Buddy!!! I knew you could finish but this far exceeded my hopes for you! Love ya!
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 03:52 am
BTW George the NYC Marathon is this Sunday ,you should do it next year ,its only 26 miles ....piece of cake :)
<3
F,A.F
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 03:49 am
George you have held me captive through your journey. I couldn't sleep last night waiting for an update. I must have read your progress 15 times today and every time it beings me to tears. I kept checking throughout the work day for any updated pictures or news ( thank goodness for my blackberry:).
Not only is Luci is one lucky girl,but all of us who have children with growth disorders are. You have become one of us. I updated on facebook so many times today about you that I was getting private messages asking if. My account got hacked into.
We are hopeful that you are planning on joining us for the convention , our daughter Alexis wants an autograph from you ( yes you better have head shots and a marker handy :)
You have accomplished more this week than many have in a lifetime , you should be so proud of yourself .
We will be forever grateful for what you have done for us ,the impact you have had on my life goes beyond words .George you are officially Magic's superhero and ours .
Much love support healing vibes and positive energy coming your way for a fantastic finish from NYC
Faith , Frank and Alexis ( she can hardly wait to meet you )
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 02:59 am
George- words don't seem to measure up to your accomplishment, heart and guts. We have enjoyed following your progress each day with your excellent updates, and prayed for your strength and safety. You have given an example to us all that anything is possible with determination, faith, hope and determination. What a great example. Awesome job!
The Gerardis.
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 01:48 am
Congrats G on it all - the race, these comments... your mom's notes are beautiful and this blog is beyond moving, like nothing I've seen before. Luci is a very lucky little girl and soon she'll be old enough to grasp the depth of this all, if she isn't already.
Thx for the reminder that hardships make the good things in life that much sweeter...
Savor the finish line - you earned it!
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 01:46 am
Simply amazing, George . . . you are awesome!!!
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 01:02 am
George - most amazing. Your impact on our family is interesting - waking at 5 am to prepare for work and the first words we share are "where is George" "what is the news on George" "did George finish the stage" Kathryn has great respect of you from the work you do together at ML. Together we have most awsome respect for what you have accomplished in Sahara. Your determination and passion are impeccable. This may seem odd but I look foward to meeting you since you have become a significant portion of our famil. Safe travels, Mitch
Posted On: 31 Oct 2009 12:11 am
So I may be one of the last to chime in...but I was likely one of the first to check your stage 5 status this morning - as soon as my alarm went off!! I was definitely teary-eyed when I read your blog, and thought I'd come up with something to say by now...all I can think of is how amazing you are to sooo many of us and how you've brought us all together this week. I'm sure we won't forget this anytime soon, and I know you won't! Can't wait to hear all the stories - the pics and videos have been fascinating and I'm sure there is so much more to tell. I emailed the Today show and told them they had to interview you so maybe you'll be telling it all on the morning news soon!
so proud and so inspired. way to go chmiel!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:45 pm
George, your eloquent writing allows us to feel your emotions. Your story today brought me to tears. I cannot imagine your pain, your exhaustion, or your exhiliration, but you have brought me as close as I can get. Thank you for sharing each leg of your journey with such detail. I would hope that you will share your experience as a speaker at The MAGIC Convention 2010. I cannot invision a more motivational speaker. You are an inspiration. Thank you. I look forward to meeting the man who has kept me captivated for the last week. Enjoy the thrill of victory tomorrow...you deserve it!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:24 pm
Congratulations doesn\'t seem to express how proud we are of what you
have accomplished. You have always been drivena nd that is what you need to do what you have done,incredible!!! We are so very proud. I haaven\'t blogged, but I have prayed. You have been in the Kennedys\' hearts all the while.
We love you. Come home safely to tell us the story of the life changing event.
We can hardly wait to see you tomorrow!!!
Love,
From all the Kennedys and Jeffers!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:14 pm
To all competitors you all are winners ...George Jr you are incredible so strong in yr mental agility . U rock! Luv reading yr "blogs" can feel the "pain" you all been through! Cheering you all the way to pyramids.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:45 pm
You are such an amazing person with an unbelievable ability to persevere through the most incredible race. Above all, your heart is so gracious and giving. Congratulations on making it and believing in yourself in the way we all ought to believe!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:34 pm
I am so amazed by what you are doing. Thank you again for opening the eyes of the world to Magic Foundation! Keep up the hard work! We're pulling for you!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:09 pm
Hi George mikes mon again Just wanted to say what a great job you did. 5th overall thats great. I know that mike and jolie, luci know what a great guy you are. But i have to say you are amazing person. Have a saft trip home. thank you again. june, steve
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:26 pm
Congrats George! I am not the least bit surprised by your performance -- hell, you gotta be one of the most driven people I know -- bring it home tomorrow!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:23 pm
Unbelievable George!!! So proud of you!!! There are really no words to describe what you've accomplished! Luci is very lucky to have someone like you in her life! Amazing!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:08 pm
Congratulations George! Thank you for supporting Magic! Glory to God for your amazing success and abilities to run strongly all week! Thank you for caring for others. Take care and recover well! My 5yo son who takes GH daily saw the website and photographs...he exclaimed "I want to do that!" Thank you for being an inspiration and role model. Blessings.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:53 pm
We are all so proud of you George!! It has been so much fun following along on your progress. You are a true champion, and all the MAGIC kids are so grateful!! Great job!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:36 pm
The whole Merrill Lynch family is following you daily. Since no one is working & we're all reading your blogs - they've blocked your website! Can you believe it? Just know that you are making everyone so proud. Congrats to you! You have shown the best of the human spirit. ALL of us are with you!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:12 pm
Home stretch, George! Go get 'em. I've been following your progress... success is a much better word. What you've accomplished is truly beyond belief. I'm certain that many of the competitors are competing on their own behalfs. For you to be subjecting yourself to what you're enduring for someone else, for a truly worthy cause, makes this all that more phenomenal. You are a Superman... physically and mentally... but very literally for Luci and MAGIC!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:10 pm
Echoing Amanda Boarman....GEORGE FOR PRESIDENT!!!!! BRING ON AUSTRALIA 2010 :)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:09 pm
Incredible! I cant even imagine what you have been through. Congratulations. Have a safe trip back.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:06 pm
Abslutely Awesome!!!!!!!!! George, you are truly the man.....congratulations on a job very well done...enjoy that finish line...you make so many people proud to know you...t
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:59 pm
George...absolutely amazing!! I'm extremely proud of you...your determination is unreal (awesome write-ups, BTW). And to think the last time we saw each other, you were eating 15 hot dogs in 5 minutes!!! I'll bet none of your competitors out there in the desert can do that!!
Congrats!!! Make it home safe.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:50 pm
G - you are amazing. Philippe and I have been talking about you daily! You've always been an inspiration, but now, you are an angel. God Bless, good luck and cant wait to see you live!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:19 pm
George, I need to start out saying congratulations on a fantastic journey through the desert. You are a hero to many kids with growth disorders. Mary, my wife and co-founder of MAGIC, has been following you like you were our own son. Thank you for giving me my wife back. The nights have been endless as she keeps her phone right next to the bed and every little "ding", indicating a new email, she would jump up to read the updates. We look forward to seeing the pictures as you proudly cross the finish line draped in the American Flag. You have made everyone in MAGIC extremely proud and everyone in the United States as the top finisher for the USA! Just spoke to Mary and she said to tell you...look out....the media is going to grab this story....Boston Globe has you in the paper today! Safe trip home
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:18 pm
You are a freak of nature. What an inspiration. For the rest of your life you will know in your mind that life's "problems" are nothing more than situations that can be overcome. Share those thoughts with others.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:16 pm
Amazing. I will be praying for your recovery, and your mom (hang in there mom!). You are a hero to so many.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:05 pm
The more i look at this race the more i can't belive it. Congratulations on an amazing job so far. You are a big inspiration. I'm going to the gym now. See you at the reunion.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 07:03 pm
George you ROCK! You are unbelievable. Thank you so much for raising awareness for MAGIC.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 06:59 pm
Great follow up piece to the Boston.com article now on the front page of boston.com.
Go George!!!!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 06:51 pm
Truely an amazing story! Way to go!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 06:30 pm
amazing! we have been talking about you all day all week in the office! cant wait for your return. you can go as the bionic man for halloween
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:56 pm
"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan, 'Press on,' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race." —Calvin Coolidge
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:33 pm
Congrats BRO!! If you get a hot sec. grab me a couple grains of sand from the desert. I dont think they will miss it.
Now you get to run around one of the most beautiful and mysterious structures in the world. Take every last second you have out there and really think about what a amazing accomplishment you just conquered. Can't wait to see you running with the US flag or possible even finishing with the # one finger out, showing you conquered everyone. Nice Work!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:27 pm
I concur... Simply amazing!! Great race details and amazing support.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:26 pm
Congratulations on your feat.
When you finally sit down and think about it you will be so proud. The last 6 miles should seem like a sprint.
Have a safe trip home.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:17 pm
George...congratulations on an incredible accomplishment. You were the headline conversation at our office meeting this morning. Can't wait to see the photos and hear about the experience when you return. Thanks for being a great inspiration to all us.
JL
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 05:09 pm
I am so incredibly happy for you, and am excited to hear how well you did!!! Ughh it was hear wrenching to go to be without any news... but what a great way to begin the day!! (with a good cry! LoL) You are doing so wonderful!!!! TY TY TY!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:55 pm
oh my gosh! George, you are incredible! You truly are a leader. "If your actions inspire others to dream more,
learn more, do more and become more,
you are a leader. " xo
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:53 pm
You have achieved what you set out to do and even more !We are so excited and awed. HUGs and thank you for all the torture you've gone through! Still tearing up...wow! I bet Luci is dancing with mom and dad. Take care recovering!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:51 pm
Oh my gosh, i can't stop crying; this is so awesome...literally, we all are in AWE of you. To celebrate, I just made my second "Uncle Richie challenge" donation : ) you've changed lives, not just the Horvaths and the other MAGIC families but everyone who has been religiously checking this site and pulling for you. that's such a powerful thing.
I second the suggestion below about a book -- there are incredible, inspiring, relatable stories here, George, and I think you should definitely submit something to Outside mag. If you need an editor, I'll happily volunteer!
make sure to enjoy that victory lap through the pyramids and have a safe trip home!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:50 pm
George -- everyone keeps asking what's next? PLEASE, PLEASE give your old mom & dad some stress-free days before you plan anything else! We've aged a ton in the last week!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:45 pm
Whoever recommended that our George put a baked potato in his shorts did not do George a favor. He was on the verge of international stardom, attracting many of Whitney\'s girlfriends and super models throughout Europe.The \'potato\" suggestion has been a disaster.Not only is it affecting George\'s stride, you should have told him the potato goes in the front. The resulting protrusion is why we never see any pictures of George from behind.The distortion has a corresponding effect of \"little pyramid\" syndrome. All of Whitney\'s friends are pyramid admirers so they are now out. George, the quest is glorious.The win is in the undertaking so please don\'t push yourself too hard.The blog notes alone will make you famous. It is as though I am running with you. We are planning your Pub Crawl marathon.Potato repositioning is a must. Whitney said that \"I can\'t help the guy if he brings a French fry\"-whatever that means.God Bless boy-be safe
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:44 pm
I am beyond impressed. What an incredible accomplishment for a terrific cause. Well done George. Proud of ya!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:43 pm
All, we should be very proud of George for being a leader in this race.Not only is he enduring environmental hardships, he is trying to relate with other runners from all over the world.We all know George's wonderful personality and wit so it is a good bet that he is making new friends around the world.Last night at the oasis, George got peeved by the Egyptian runner who kept bragging that his people started the civilized world and built the pyramids.George responded that the Czechs invented sex. The French runner said, "I accept that, but it was the French who invented sex with other people".Stay proud George
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:42 pm
George, we received your note.First, you did not have to defend your experience with the camel.No one expected you to be abstinent in the desert. Second, we are all getting many inquiries about your marriage status.I am telling all the women that it is the dehydration which allows you to wear such short shorts in the pictures. Can you have a better advocate?Whitney\'s girlfriends have all expressed interest; however, you must be camel free when you return.Please be safe
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:36 pm
George! You are incredible. You knew you could get through this and you did!! We are all so proud of you. You truly are the best!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:35 pm
George,
Mission accomplished! Congratulations on completing an experience of a lifetime...and doing it in style!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:31 pm
So what if I look like a raccoon in need of a tissue right now! I am just shocked that God actually sends angels wearing tennis shoes these days. Someone needs to write a book about you!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:12 pm
George - unbelievable accomplishment - with your success in conquering the Sahara Desert in such fine form and overall ranking - I gotta think this is not going to be the only chapter in the book ? CONGRATS ! Have a safe and comfortable journey back to the U.S.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:10 pm
top American finisher...check. 1st in your age bracket...check. Top 10 finisher overall...check. raised over $50,000 for MAGIC...check. Now please come home. :)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:04 pm
To all those @ ml who support - don't forget to submit to matching gifts. - I almost did.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:00 pm
I will not cry at work
I will not cry at work
ohhh myyy!! I just read George's Blog!!! You are the man!!! Beside myself with happiness for you!! Can't wait to see the video of you crossing the finish with the American Flag -- I will definetely not watch or read that one at work '-))))
I ACCEPT UNCLE RICHIE'S CHALLANGE and just matched my original donation to MAGIC.
Cheers George and Congratulations!!!! KGD
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:52 pm
All I can say is WOW! You are an amazing person. My daughter Sarah has struggled with a growth disorder for all of her 8 years and the Magic Foundation is such an important part of our lives, what a blessing you are to do this for such an incredible cause. Luci is very blessed to have you in her life. I am brought to tears every time I read about your progress. Thank you very much for your sacrifice and willingness to go the distance.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:37 pm
Georgie, there is nothing left that i can say that hasn't been already said except YOU DID IT! What an extrodinary feit you accompished. Sit back now and take it all in! Luci is one lucky girl! We love you and God bless! GO GEORGIE GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:27 pm
Hey, George!
Know you can do anything now! Our thoughts and prayers are with you......You're a tiger!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:25 pm
I was so worried last night as I have sat down every night around 10pm to read your blogs and nothing came up. I went to bed and could not wait to see this morning. I don't think anyone doubted you could do it but to do this race as well as you did....truly AMAZING. After this....what could possibly be next?!?!? Antarctica...Qobi Desert? The world is your oyster. Congrats George, you are amazing.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:24 pm
George!!!
Love the updates, you are a true inspiration. I'm so impressed that you are not only competing in such an amazing race, but that you are kicking butt! Great work! Get home safe!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:05 pm
Since Gardner and Loco insist on Rocky quotes and clips (mainly Rocky IV), I feel the need to add to this!
Keep fighting strong man, I knew you wanted to put up a good number and you blew away your own expectations. We love and miss you back in the States.
Now enjoy one of the greatest scenes in movie history:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UtV6D13-Vk
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:05 pm
You don't know me (friend of fellow competitor Tom Gallagher) but wanted to tell you I read your blog and admire your determination and literary skills! I do a few triathlons and can understand fighting fhrough pain but nothing compared to your experience. I just wanted to say congratulations on your finish and you have humbled a fellow athlete. Take care and safe journey home.
Kevin
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:54 pm
George! Absolutely amazing...I'm at a loss for words. I can't wait to see you on Sunday...you are such an inspiration to us all!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:50 pm
There are no words to express what you have done. Everyone here has been on the edge of their seat waiting for your blogs. You are remarkable! Thank you for sharing this journey with me and everyone else. It truly sent a precious message that I think many people need. I can't even imagine how much this has changed your own life. See you when you get back, travel safely.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:49 pm
Keep it up, WC. Almost home, sweet home.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:48 pm
I have no clue what to say anymore - I think my emotions are remnicent of how I felt the first time I watched 'Rudy'. This has been an incredible feat you've accomplished and the impact you've had on your friends/family has been amazing. Congratulations man and keep kicking ass!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:46 pm
You are the coolest person I know!!
Thanks for taking us with you on this life changing journey.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:43 pm
George, what can I say!! You embody the word "Hero" in every single sense. Truly an amazing feat accomplished by an amazing person.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:35 pm
Jorge, you are a machine out there. So what's next on your list after you dominate the Sahara? Swimming around the world in 30 days or perhaps walking on the moon is your next target! Awesome man, purely amazing. My folks couldn't sleep last night as they were staying awake waiting for the results to post fearing the worst. They didn't believe me when I said before the race started that you would either dominate and finish in the top 10 or die trying. I think your last blog just proved it....so damn proud of you bro! Bring it home baby...bring it home!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:28 pm
When you need extra strength...remember whipping Billy C's butt in Burmuda.
Great job kiddo!
BG
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:25 pm
I cannot begin to tell you how I feel. I guess shock is the best word to describe how all of us at MAGIC feel. I did not sleep at all last night just waiting for results! Pam, Dianne and myself spend most of the day at the office watching every move you make. You are incredible! God brought us an angel that will live on in MAGIC forever! Carry that USA flag with pride and know when you cross the final finish line that you have made a huge difference in the life of all children with growth disorders!! We all love you!!! I hope you know that the tears of joy will be crossing that finish line with you. Safe trip home.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:20 pm
Georgie, I, too am sitting here in tears as I follow your progress on this incredible journey. My heart is filled with pride and amazement at what you have accomplished, and the lessons the entire world is learning from you. You're almost there, and you've proven that there's absolutely nothing you cannot do.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:19 pm
George you're amazing (but I think a few other people may have told you that already)! Can't wait to see you carrying the American Flag!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:17 pm
What an awesome accomplishment -- wishing you a safe journey home -May God be with you
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:11 pm
George, We are so proud of your accomplissments. All
the information about the RUN is very interesting as personally, I could not even attempt such a feat. Thank you for the support that you have given to MAGIC. All of us wish you continued sucess and good health.
Marty Nye - National Treasurer
THE MAGIC FOUNDATION
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:08 pm
Yo bro wow what a great job
You should be very proud.
get home safe and sound soon!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:07 pm
G, Great stuff. Mental toughness has carried you to a place most can't even imagine. Enjoy your last days in the desert, then back to Boston for a little veal treistini! I must be getting soft.
Congrats!
Merril
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:03 pm
Unbelievable George!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:02 pm
Georgie ~ lighting another candle for you at St. Mary's, she'll be watching over you. Give it everything you have. God's speed. Aunt Aud & Uncle Bern
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:01 pm
Unreal! Beyond Words!!!!!
Wishes for a safe uneventful bus trip back towards Cairo (on a bus with lots of windows I really hope for everyone sake!!!!!!!!)
Enjoy your victory lap tomorrow, can not think of a more epic scene to end this truely epic adventure!!!! Know that everyone here is behind you cheering you on!!!!!!!!
Safe home!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:59 pm
I don't even know what more I can say, but I'll keep giving you the encouragement that is obviously working for you. I look forward to reading your updates every day, and sit here simply amazed. You are a force to be reckoned with!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:51 pm
Amazing story! Great Job. You are so strong. Reading the blog with your vivid descriptions has been wonderful. Thank you for doing what you are doing and for taking the time to share the story with us! Go George!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:30 pm
by the way.... the image of you with the sick beard, climbing on all fours up that final mountain is just an obvious comparison to the training in Rocky IV. the only differences are about 120 degrees and you didn't yell DRAGOOOOOOOO!!! at the top.
http://www.starz.com/titles/RockyIV/PublishingImages/rocky_4_1985_685x385.jpg
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:30 pm
Reading everyone elses post I am sure by now you realized what an amazing thing you are doing for magic. Just wanted to say thank you for taking on this challange and bringing us with you. Your blogs are very inspiring. Praying for a strong finish and a safe trip home for you
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:28 pm
Congratulations man, way to finish strong on the hardest day! Coming in four and a half hours under your goal is just insane...I don't know how you've been doing that day after day. Good luck on the final push today, make it memorable. See you on Sunday Funday.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:24 pm
CONGRATS !! You should be very, very proud of yourself. Everyone here thinks you are amazing. Safe trip home, can't wait to see pics and celebrate your success
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:17 pm
i knew you could do it george....i just knew it! but WOW!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU ARE INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!! XOXO
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:11 pm
George,
YOU DID IT! CONGRATS!
Blessings to you, to the rest of the Sahara Race 2009 athletes and to all the women & men athletes of the USA who are faced with the extremes everyday to keep us at home safe. Wishing you all a safe trip back home.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:07 pm
George, Waited up til almost midnight looking for signs you finished the segment. So glad to see you made it okay. You are almost done!!! WTG!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:03 pm
You are amazing! Congratulations! Have a safe trip home!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:02 pm
Wow! When I saw the results this AM and read your blog, I am totally amazed. I knew you would do well but you are in 5th place! You are totally crushing it. I'm so proud of you! Keep it up today, the next 6 should be cake compared to what you've already accomplished. Finish strong!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:00 pm
George,
I'm sick of cleaning up all these girls tears around our house.
Its been unreal being able to follow you through this rediculous race. Just know that the girls and I have set up a small marathon course that runs from Logan to the House because we figured at this point youd never want to drive anywhere again. Now that you can absolutely destroy 55 Mis in a day!!
Finish up strong and get home safe!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:00 pm
Congratulations George!! I have loved reading all your blogs. You are truly amazing!! So awesome about 5th place!!! I told Whitney that we need to meet up when you get back b/c I just don't believe someone as spectacular as you truly exists. =)
Thank YOU for making a difference!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:58 pm
Congrats. You are a force to be reckoned with. Way to go! Have a safe trip home and we will see you there:)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:57 pm
No words . . . just picture a lot of jumping up and down and screaming!!!!
I hope they have that American flag and the video cameras ready!
Enjoy your big finish, and come home safe!
Sending lots of love and strength!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:57 pm
amazing, truly. and even more so that you made this race bigger than just you against the desert... the fact that your fundraising efforts will benefit so many. awesome job!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:56 pm
What an amazing accomplishment! Congrats! What's next?!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:55 pm
George...what a post! Amazing, absolutely amazing! I'm so stoked for you, what you're going through...not only the physical aspect but the mental and emotional as well. What a life altering event! Just couldn't be happier for you....way to raise the bar my friend!
See you Sunday morning and I look forward to your last update!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:53 pm
I'm honestly at a loss for words right now so I'm just going to say congrats, you're amazing, and I'll see you at the airport Sunday morning!!! "It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:39 pm
Remarkable people accomplish remarkable goals. You began with a purpose that became so much more than anticipated. Your journey has touched us all. No matter where you place in this race , George, you have already won! CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:35 pm
Wow, holy smokes, great job. Way to step it up to a whole new level. Congratulations and enjoy the last leg of the run - this part is easy, right?
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:29 pm
George, YOU ARE AN ANIMAL.You are beyond words as the most amazing person. My heart has been beating all day for results on this Stage and seeing the finish and knowing you are OK never mind that you are in 5th place is mind blowing. Kathy and I are just so happy for you and the whole group. We love you and keep it going.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:28 pm
Astounding!! Congratulations! I was up in Boston PBIG yesterday and you were the topic of discussion in every meeting as they are all following your blog. Just want you to know that we are all supporting you and we are all in awe of your achievement. You're almost finished - take good care of yourself during this last stage my son :)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:22 pm
George you are amazing!! I cannot believe you beat your time by over 4 hours in that type of heat! and the story about the little boy made me tear up here on the desk. can't wait to read the next blog!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:14 pm
I hung onto every word...
On my next mountaineering adventure, George, I will be remembering your superhuman drive. 55 miles in the desert ... in one day: unreal.
You are what you think... Your parents are wonderful neighbors and "their son" is a true inspiration.
Cheers and may the Desert Gods kindly guide you to the finish line!
Alec =)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:13 pm
Simply unbelievable!! Your determination and drive are so inspiring!! Keep it up today!!! your almost done!!! :)
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:09 pm
Amazing! That's the best word I can come up with to describe your accomplishment and it falls well short of truly capturing this feat. The last stage is going to seems like a jog in the park. Enjoy it. Take it all in. And then sleep like Rip Van Winkle...I'll cover you in New England until you wake up.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:05 pm
George: Congratulations on an accomplishment that the other 99.99999% can't even fathom. I know you aren't done yet but I have a hunch you will finish. That you did it to raise money for Luci (and because you are more than a little nuts) defines you pretty well. We are all incredibly proud of you. Enjoy your 10K and be proud of what you have achieved. It truly is extraordinary. By the way, The irish beat the Eagles while you were out jogging.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:00 pm
Congrats George!!! Just a quick 6 miles today and you are done - FINISH STRONG!!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:00 pm
George,
Excellent job! You make Schwarzenegger look like a girlie-man.
By the way, are you up for the SuperFrog Triathlon in CA? We can run/swim/bike with the Navy Seals.
Congratulations again!
Josh
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:53 am
George you know I'm not sensitive why do you have to make me cry!!! This is absolutely beyond comprehension. I'm sitting here trying to find the right words to type but I can't, I will just have to wait to see you to give you the bone crushing hug I've been waiting all week to give you! I am so proud of you and all you've done and couldn't ask for a better turnout of support for a greater person. You are a true hero. We can't wait to see you and your fierce beard. :) <3
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:46 am
dude, i feel so many mixed emotions. overjoyed, pumped, and completely inspired about the possibilites of the human body. i knew you had it in you, but that didn't change the fact that when i saw the results and your post, it sent chills down my spine. finish strong my man! we are all cheering for you! do what lance did 7 times and put the nail in the coffin in that last individual sprint!! just demoralize the competition.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:44 am
Georgie, With tears flowing down my checks like a waterfall Im reading your blog, I'm trying to picture myself in the race. You are beyond belief. Only God is giviing you this inner strength to accomplish the impossible. Can you imagine how little Luci feels right now? the smile on her face. You are doing this for her. Your pain and suffering is all for the cause. We all love you.
ATTENTION EYERONE
Reading this blog with tears in your eyes lets get behind Georgie, show him our love and support, lets give him a surprise, as he crosses that fininsh line by matching our donation to the MAGIC fondation. If you have not donated, please do so. After all... this is the reason, Georgie is putting his body thru this hell. GO GEORGIE GO.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:37 am
You are simply amazing! Thank you for doing this!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:18 am
Like everyone else, we waited, wondered and worried until about midnight, then hit the rack.
This morning we are having your blog for breakfast, and it is the best meal we could have. Brian said that you would cruise until you crashed," that is just George"!!
You can' t train for heart and courage, you just have it--tons of it.
Way to inspire us all!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:17 am
How can I resond to how incredible you are? You have found a place deep down inside you that most of us will never get to. Always knew you were meant for something great, but this -- this is so beyond anything. The love eminating to you right now transcends anything. This moment will live with me forever.
Don't think I can read another blog -- I have no more tears left to shed. Please take care today, pace yourself, and come home to us safely. Aside from the love, I send with every step you take, I want you to know that no one could be filled with more pride than me. How blessed we all are that you are in our lives. You really are my miracle.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 11:07 am
AAAAAHHHHHHHH YOU DID IT!!!!! I'm in tears after reading that post. Holy crap your in 5th holy crap holy crap! Terra, Picarde, and I are DEFINETLY doing happy dances today :) Sprint it out to the finish buddy!!!! Bring this thing home!!!!!!! AAAAHHHHHH Your freaking unbelieveable.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:57 am
way to go georgie, number 5...we're all amazed at your accomplishments on so many levels...you continue to be in all of our thoughts...you are all heart man...can't wait to see you when you get back...hn
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:54 am
George, I have no words to say what we are all feeling. My daughter, Maddie (an ISS kid), wrote to you a few days ago. Yesterday she called from school and said she was having a hard time thinking about school because she was praying for you and wondering how you were doing. She also thinks its funny that I cry every time we read your blogs. You are reaching people and educating people in a way that I don't know if you can imagine. We can't wait to meet you in July! To say we, MAGIC and it's families, are proud of you is an understatement! Thank you for your sacrifice.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:53 am
I can't even imagine what you went through. It sounds painful yet eye opening at the same time. I love that you finished this stage in less time then you quoted before you left. Today is going to be a breeze, make sure to stay safe, drink lots of water and enjoy the pyramids as you run by!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:47 am
Amazing write-up. What an experience!
28 October 2009 01:57 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
First off...thanks again to everyone for the unreal support, both to me out here and in support of Luci Horvath and the MAGIC Foundation back home. And thanks Uncle Richie (in typical fashion) for taking the support up a notch for this most worthy cause. The size of this family is a force to be reckoned with and Im proud to be a part of it. I havent even received the most recent comments yet Ive already gotten something like 280 messages in the last few days. Its making a huge difference and I wouldnt be here without them.
Stage 4 update: Defining moment of the race. Once again last night I got zero sleep. Combination of the sleeping quarters and trying to shut your body down after these grueling days just isnt working for me. So late last night I sat out next to the campfire under the most gorgeous starlit sky for several hours focusing on the task Id be facing in the morning. Was I happy with what I had already accomplished or did I want to push for more? Just sat there thinking, pondering, strategizing, getting amped up. This was going to be moving day and after the first three stages theres much on the line (top ten, top American, winning my age bracket). I started getting so filled with adrenaline I was ready to hit the course at 4am. Just sitting there with a scowl on my face like an amateur fighter whose ready to knock gloves. For the first time in my life I developed the eye of the tiger and got the ultra focus. At that point I knew no matter what obstacles stood in front on me on this fourth consecutive marathon in four days that I would take them down. When the clock started I went out methodically with strength, determination and power, and with the exception of a few cameos, that scowl never left the entire day and I never picked my head up. Waiting patiently like a hunter I slowly started marking my prey, taking them down one by one. By the end I finished sixth beating a number of more talented, more experienced and faster runners. When I crossed the finish line I let out several patented University of Tennesse war cries alla Dave Gardner. It was on sure guts and focus that I came in this high again today...nothing else. It was my best athletic performance to date.
So back to reality - tomorrow lies the most grueling challenge of my life. Im going to learn what it really means to suffer and sacrifice. After banging out 100 miles the last four days in these conditions (yesterday was the hottest recorded temperature ever for this event at 120F air temperature) and battling dehydration, fatigue, severe weight loss/muscle deterioration, shin splints, open wound on neck, swollen left knee and several blisters we are now staring a 55 mile day in the face. Daunting. Guess the plan is again to go out slow and strong, try to cover some distance while its cooler in the morning, eat and rehydrate midday, then push on through the afternoon and all night till I get it done. No clue how long this thing is going to take, probably finish sometime in the middle of the night...but I will finish. Theres no room for doubt, theres no room for fear. Only the thoughts of all the MAGIC families and the unbelievable friends and family I have on here following this race on a daily basis. You all mean the world to me and I couldnt possibly feel any luckier than I do at this exact moment. To be blessed with so many people who care so much is a gift and its rare. My present back...in a few short days Ill be the one carrying the USA flag across the finish line in front of the ancient pyramids of Giza as the top American in the field.
Stage 4 update: Defining moment of the race. Once again last night I got zero sleep. Combination of the sleeping quarters and trying to shut your body down after these grueling days just isnt working for me. So late last night I sat out next to the campfire under the most gorgeous starlit sky for several hours focusing on the task Id be facing in the morning. Was I happy with what I had already accomplished or did I want to push for more? Just sat there thinking, pondering, strategizing, getting amped up. This was going to be moving day and after the first three stages theres much on the line (top ten, top American, winning my age bracket). I started getting so filled with adrenaline I was ready to hit the course at 4am. Just sitting there with a scowl on my face like an amateur fighter whose ready to knock gloves. For the first time in my life I developed the eye of the tiger and got the ultra focus. At that point I knew no matter what obstacles stood in front on me on this fourth consecutive marathon in four days that I would take them down. When the clock started I went out methodically with strength, determination and power, and with the exception of a few cameos, that scowl never left the entire day and I never picked my head up. Waiting patiently like a hunter I slowly started marking my prey, taking them down one by one. By the end I finished sixth beating a number of more talented, more experienced and faster runners. When I crossed the finish line I let out several patented University of Tennesse war cries alla Dave Gardner. It was on sure guts and focus that I came in this high again today...nothing else. It was my best athletic performance to date.
So back to reality - tomorrow lies the most grueling challenge of my life. Im going to learn what it really means to suffer and sacrifice. After banging out 100 miles the last four days in these conditions (yesterday was the hottest recorded temperature ever for this event at 120F air temperature) and battling dehydration, fatigue, severe weight loss/muscle deterioration, shin splints, open wound on neck, swollen left knee and several blisters we are now staring a 55 mile day in the face. Daunting. Guess the plan is again to go out slow and strong, try to cover some distance while its cooler in the morning, eat and rehydrate midday, then push on through the afternoon and all night till I get it done. No clue how long this thing is going to take, probably finish sometime in the middle of the night...but I will finish. Theres no room for doubt, theres no room for fear. Only the thoughts of all the MAGIC families and the unbelievable friends and family I have on here following this race on a daily basis. You all mean the world to me and I couldnt possibly feel any luckier than I do at this exact moment. To be blessed with so many people who care so much is a gift and its rare. My present back...in a few short days Ill be the one carrying the USA flag across the finish line in front of the ancient pyramids of Giza as the top American in the field.
Comments: Total (107) comments
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 10:04 am
You are incredible. No. 5--there is nothing that can stop you now! Will be taking the final steps with you today sending the love.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:49 am
WAY TO GO BRO!!! Holy killer work on stage 5!! Way to rock it!! Way to set a goal...and excel...and surpass it!!
Just a jog now to close out an amazing chapter in your life.
Proud of you man!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:34 am
No way in hell I can go back to bed now. So proud of you man!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 09:26 am
Horvath just said it all. 3am here in Laramie and I had to roll out of bed for another results check. Chmiel dominates the world! XS!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 08:28 am
Are you kidding me???Unreal.........Top American, 1st in his age bracket , oh and by the way 5th place!?!?!?!?! There is nothing you can't do. It's 3am Texas time and I couldn't sleep until I saw these numbers, I had a feeling you crushed the 55 miler....and you did. .....AWESOME!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:47 am
George I am choosing to believe that just maybe you have actually gone to sleep tonight...although your time right now it is almost 7 in the morning. We have been spoiled each day by your incredible blog updates-thank you! I hope you are sleeping.
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:22 am
Wow. Wow. Wow. You totally have this - not that there was a doubt in anyone's mind. And on top of it all, your blogging skillz are pretty phenomenal. Congratulations on all you've done... you're almost there!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 04:08 am
24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 1 Cor. 9:24
George,
You are an inspiration. You've finished the most difficult stage - may you now capture your prize!
Dave G's mom
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:53 am
George where are you ? It is 11:47est i have been checking on you all day . The magic blogs are going nuts because of you .We need an update on where you are . Sending you extra energy from NYC .
Msg from my daughter " George you are amazing , how hot is it ? is it hotter than Disney world "LOL, when I told her YES her mouth dropped . ( remember she is one of the kids you are doing this for ) GEORGE WE LOVE YOU for all that you are doing for the Magic families <3
Keep on going , you ROCKKKKK
Much love from NYC
Faith,Frank and Alexis
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:31 am
11:26 pm EST. Can't they just post some of the results for us? You're looking strong in the pictures. I up'd the energy vibes today and included a little dance per Whitney's instructions. Hope it helped. Highly doubt you needed it. You da man!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:49 am
Where's George?!!! Can't wait for an update. Imagining you are one of the 50 reported in tonight and celebrating your success! We all wait - to hear - of your successful day. Nobody's sleeping in the Eastern Div and beyond hoping to hear good news! Best wishes, KGD
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 02:16 am
i've been bragging about you and ok, ok, my wife and babysitter saw the photos of you during the race. because i love you, i am fine with it because you just ran 55 miles in the desert. animal! great job, hang in there!!!!!!!!!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:46 am
FOURTH AND GOAL ON THE ONE! ONE SECOND LEFT! WHAT DO YOU DO?
TAKE IT SQUARE UP THE GUT!
SHOWTIME, CHIM!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:38 am
Where the heck are you? I am going crazy! You didn't play footsie last night did you? LOL
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:37 am
If I had to guess worry levels I would go with 1. Mama Chm 2. Mama Chm 3. Mama Chm 4. Papa Chm 5. Everyone esle :) I have to assume that you are one of the 50 that has finished already!!! But a little breaking news like "George Chmiel finished stage 5 doing high knees finishing with another double point!"
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:27 am
Ok what the heck is going on over there? Are you ok? There are TONS of us going nuts over-here. Please God I hope you are ok! I have about 3 dozen emails from people not going to sleep in anticipation....I know tons of others like Whit, Travis, Mike and your mom must be worse than I am! Mary has been getting up at night -all through the night....each time her email alert rings on her phone! We are not getting any sleep over here in anticipation everyday! Stay strong but most important of all-you are already a hero to all of us-so take care of yourself!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 01:26 am
YOU ROCK!!!!! You're a real inspiration!
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 12:26 am
George,
You are an animal! I am glad that you have found the eye of the tiger...but am NOT surprised that you're still doing so well.
Keep on truckin'. We're sending much love and positive energy from the good ol' U-S-of-A!!
KC
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:29 pm
George,
I work in the Greenwich office at ML and heard about this run through Kurt...i could not believe what he was telling me!
I am running a marathon this Sunday. The thought of running a marathon every day for five days and then 2 marathons on the last day, is truely sickening....but at the same it is also really awesome.
The thought of you accomplishing this ENORMOUS challenge, and the cause behind it, really bring chills up my spine.
I wish you all the luck in the world, and can't wait to hear about it in person when you get back. ONWARD AND UPWARD!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:11 pm
George, this is amazing. We are pulling for you and sending lots of wishes your way. Can't wait to hear all about it.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 08:23 pm
Way to go Chmiel you truly are amazing! Your dedication and commitment to this cause is remarkable. Keep up the great work on the race and get sleep when you can...Well enough of that, time to think about work! While you're out there sun bathing, enjoying a nice run in the sun, the rest of us are in NYC workin our butts off! Oh and by the way while you were vacationing I scheduled several office visting in New England....see you in RI on Wednesday & MA on Thursday!!! (P.S. Big Fish is still our secret...LOL)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 07:06 pm
I know you want to put up a good time and you are doing great!! Keep rocking and try not to burn too much energy providing dance moves for the volunteers at the checkpoints (check the pics)! Also, love the beard and believe you should keep it going once back in the states. Now go get em Chm!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 06:57 pm
Hey man, you are doing great!! You should be almost done with this leg, keep going strong. We are all routing for you!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 06:02 pm
I have barely left the computer since 3:30 am. I have taken every single step with you along this journey, but today, every step is accompanied by tears of joy and pride. Wait for every update. You WILL see all those dreams come true -- I can see it! We are proud, your friends and family are proud, all the Magic families are proud -- America is proud of you!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:51 pm
Hope you're eating, drinking, and that someone loaned you an iPod. And take a nap sometime, too!
Go, George, Go! 6th place...unreal.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:41 pm
Wow!! Good luck to you! :-)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:36 pm
You are unbelievable! a true hero! Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:33 pm
George,
Wow! Congrats on your accomplishments and your fiery determination! Having labored through a couple of Ironmans; I still can't imagine what your going through doing this much running! You sound like your head is in the right place and you will finish strong...we are running with you! Your going to finish strong! I just recently joined the MAGIC and found out you were doing this! Great job!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:28 pm
Awe inspiring. You are unstoppable. Be safe.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:27 pm
You should only have a few more hours to go!!!! Sending you all the energy I have..... GO GEORGE!!!!! WOOOOOOO!!!!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:04 pm
George- I just caught up on your blog. What you are doing is so amazing! Good luck :)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:57 pm
Awesome-- you are a hero -- we are all cheering for you -
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:21 pm
George- unbelievable and truly motivating. I'll be thinking of you on your last stage and knowing you'll kill it. Great writing- its been a fantastic journey.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:17 pm
Way to go George! My family and I are always thinking of you and this incredilble challenge! Stay safe.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:16 pm
WOW WOW WOW...that's really all I can say! Go get em' George! xo
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:00 pm
Hey George: I was wondering what the calendar looks like for Nov. biz.... jk --- you are everyone's HERO! Good Luck! kgd
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:55 pm
Way to go,George! You bring tears to our eyes for going thru this grueling race with such strength and determination for Luci, Jolie, Mike, and all Magic families. You are so selfless. All good things come to those who believe and we believe in you and reaching that finish line proud!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:49 pm
i haven't gotten any work done this entire week because i am glued to the site, checking for stage updates, videos, photos and your blogs! but i also haven't been this inspired in a long time so in a way i have mixed feelings about you finishing this race : ) i am so impressed that you were able to write something so well thought out and eloquent on a tiny little laptop in the desert, exhausted and with your most daunting day ahead of you. at this point it's a mental game and that's why everyone here know's you've got it ... your determination and sheer will is so clear and strong; there's no doubt you'll succeed (and you really already have, no matter where you finish).
“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” (john maxwell, inspired by adidas)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO-UhicUy3g
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:32 pm
Goerge, you know - I really have to give you credit for enduring the austere "tent accomodations" very funny stuff. Perhaps not so funny to the race participants. This alone has got to make it even more challengng - whoa. Listen, you have an Army of people following your every move past CP1, CP2, etc., and it is AMAZING where you have placed. You are indeed a world class athlete. Keep up the awe inspiring stuff.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:15 pm
George - WOW! I can finally say I have met someone in real life who is truly AMAZING! Keep it up - YOU CAN DO IT!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:11 pm
GREAT JOB! I'm very proud of you! You are doing an amazing thing and we all wish you well. Hang in there, you can do it!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:59 pm
Hey there-
I saw you at the shoe repair store at central sq when you came to pick up your shoes. I was wondering why the shoes had those weird things on top! After you left, the guy who worked there told me about your challenge and gave me this link. This is very inspiring. Good luck and stay strong!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:59 pm
I'm so pumped for you Chmiel!! All the hardwork, early mornings, late nights, running in the rain is paying off big time! Keep putting up good numbers, you deserve it! This is just a little extra to help fire you up:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJ9vIUmYIQQ
Its one of your favorites!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:47 pm
Hey George - I'm Ann - work with your Mom - your journey is incredible to read. Keep on running!
Hang tough - stay hungry - it's the thrill of the fight
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:47 pm
You are the man. I just said to Dave that this is the most impressive thing I have ever seen anyone I personally know do. Not even close. Proud of you buddy.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:39 pm
listen to the bell, danis mehmet... it tolls for thee.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:54 pm
Yay George! Finishing 6th?! You're the man!!!!! I have no doubt you will find the strength to complete this last stretch!!!!! Good luck!!!!! :)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:53 pm
You are almost there, so close to finishing...the end is near. RUN GEORGE RUN...or maybe a light jog!!!!Your drive is inspiring, can't wait to see you when you get back. Keep on keeping on!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:43 pm
All I can picture is you finishing the race with the American flag on you shoulders, fist in full Tiger Woods pump, and that Chm smile. It's like a scene from a movie, the crowd back home glued to their computers waiting for updates, they see you finishing in the top 10, top for your age bracket, and top American....the crowd starts to chant U.S.A, U.S.A, U.S.A....
All of the Magic kids have a true hero, a story to tell their kids and that my friend is how a legend was born!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:14 pm
Na NaNaNa NaNaNaNaNa....Na NaNaNa NaNaNaNaNa....DeNaNaaaa....DeNaNaaaaa....yeah...you know how it goes....Yeah Bro...way to rock it in classic form!! Hope you're having a good (in a relative sense) go of it today...Great to see you dig deep for the final push...and awesome to see you rise up and above....the end is in sight. We'll be looking forward to proper greeeting for you back in CTown!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:07 pm
George, You continue to awe me every day! 6th overall, dude! AMAZING!!!!!!! So great to finally see some pics of you! Keep up your spirits - You are doing GREAT!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:05 pm
George, you truly are amazing!! I've been following your blog and updates from the race all week. Best of luck as you power through those final miles!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:59 pm
George,
YOU ARE SO AWESOME! You such incredible and awe inspiring inner strength. Never before has one person pushed this hard for our families. Amazing, you are absolutely amazing. AND YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!! You've come so far, I know you can make it; AND WIN!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:56 pm
Don't bunt. Aim out of the ballpark. ~ David Ogilvy
You're finding yourself out on that dessert, who you truly are. Take that knowledge and win the damn race. I lit a candle for you at St. Mary's today, she's watching over you.
There are two things to aim at in life; first to get what you want, and after that to enjoy it. Only the wisest of mankind has achieved the second. ~ Logan Pearsall Smith
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:52 pm
We are so proud and excitied for you George!! BEST OF LUCK to you in this long stage of the race. We are all behind you and following your progress in sheer amazement everyday!!! Take care.
p.s. Solid numbers in the bear note!! You will be proud :)
God bless.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:31 pm
Man it mkes me happy to get news that you are alive! GGGOOOOOOOOOOO GGGEEEEOOOORRRGGGEEEEEE GGGGGOOOOOOOO!!! I will be doing a happy dance for you ALL day long waiting for news :)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:24 pm
George, in your moment of greatest doubt, when you don't think you can push an inch more, remember something. You have everything you need to conquer the feat. It's in you, your heart, and your preparation. Good luck, -BS
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:11 pm
You are such an inspiration!! It is so amazing to look at what you have already accomplished. Your almost there! Stay strong and healthy. All my thoughts are with you!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:10 pm
George,
Nice work!
The next time you are in the office, start the meeting with this;
"I'm just like you, I put my pants on one leg at a time, the difference is, once my pants are on, I run 155 Miles across the Sahara Desert."
Say it in a Christopher Walken voice, its always a crowd pleaser.
Finish strong!
Josh
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:08 pm
GO GEORGIE GO!!!!!!!! YOU ARE A TRUE INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US! WE LOVE YOU!!!!! GO GEORGIE GO!!!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:52 am
Love the war cries!! You are getting me pumped up! I see movie lights in your future Jorge. Keep it rolling man, keep it rolling. All I have to say is "I GOT FIVE ON SHORTY - LET'S GO!"
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:48 am
Dear George,
You belong on the cover of Outside magazine!! Those pics your mom sent me are incredible. Your blogs from your desert tents are LOL. I will continue to say... "YOU ROCK, DUDE!!"
I like your blend of self-confidence, humility, and awe. You oughta self-publish a book via Blurb.com with some of the best pics and excerpts from your narrative.
May the good force continue to guide you to the finish line!!
Cheers,
Alec =)
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:37 am
George, it's truly inspiring to read this each day. Be well.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 10:17 am
Words can't explain how unbelievable it has been to read your messages throughout this week. Reading your blog and to even imagine how you can think clearly at this point, is awe inspiring. Push on through to the other side and bring it home! You are in the home stretch. It may be the toughest stretch but you got it! See you real soon! Be safe!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 09:57 am
woke up here in detroit this am happy to see that you were quoted on the sites "breaking news" that you're through CP1 sounding really strong...can't believe that after the last 3 days you are now in the middle of a run of 54 miles (the distance from our desk at WFC to ML's Hopewell office) in crazy conditions and terain...chim, this is just truly amazing...you're doing such fabulous work out there...see you soon...hn
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 05:38 am
Drop the hammer Chmiel, time for Barry in the desert!
"All your strength, all your power, all your love. Everything you've got. Right now!"
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:47 am
still awake and thinkin about your day tomorrow. ive got most of blackrock watching this site intraday.... so a patented tennessee warcry might be in order tomorrow at work. tomorrow will likely be the hardest thing you or any person i have ever met, has ever done physically. the odds are stacked against you... and thats when chmiel is at his best. "how does a kid from coos bay who is too short, with one leg longer than the other win races?" -steve prefontaine.... the answer? pure guts. chop down the russian!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:17 am
Holy Crap Chmiel. i mean just signing up for this insanity is pretty noteworthy...but to take it to this level...not only finish each marathon, but to be the top american out there?? we could not ask for a better rep for the stars and stripes. i might have to come back to boston this sunday to celebrate!! now you will definitely be the hit of the reunion:) keep on pushing it, you've come this far, you have clearly shown that you have it in you to finish and finish strong! go chmiel!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:00 am
Wow way to go George, your determination and tenacity are awesome! You are setting a great example for us all, kids and adults, no matter how hard things may get to keep up the intensity. Thanks for doing this!
Deep peace-
The Gerardis.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:55 am
George!!! I can't believe what a wonderful thing you are doing for this foundation and for yourself. You are a rare man, and we are lucky to know you! You are going a great job, and I know you will finish with the endurance of 1,000 men! I don't know much about running, but I do have my favorite memory to keep you going: I still remember in high school you drank the test tube contents of God-knows- what! I am certain if you lived though that, you can do anything! ha!
Best of luck and there are many people thinking of you!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:00 am
George you have taken "TRUE GRIT " to another level. Stay the course, steady as you go, and if you can...and if you choose... put the hammer down. It's been wonderful this last week to see the world through your eyes. AMAZING! "EVER TO EXCEL".Be safe .LUCI&Magic Foundation Forever.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:55 am
George,
What an update OMG!!!! You are the magic foundation\'s super hero .Nothing can stop you !You are in the zone and super determined .
Sending you extra special vibes for tomorrow (even though you do not need them )
Much Love from NYC
Faith,Frank and Alexis
)))huggs((((
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:46 am
George,
We are all cheering you on for a great race tomorrow. The inspiration from all of your fans will carry you to the finish. The whole office is logging in all day to watch your progress and we are so impressed.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:28 am
George you are amazing!!! We are all in AWE of what you have accomplished so far. Our famliy is so thankful for your determination & commitment.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:11 am
Hi George!! I am a MAGIC kid with ISS. Short for idopathic short stature. The doctors dont know my im short. I am 11 years old and I really want to thankyou very much. I cant thank you enough. I have met friends at the last 2 magic conferences and i didnt think i would be able to see them ever again. You are making that possible for 100s of kids. Im not as severe as Luci and I Think what you are doing is amazing. I mean Top American!!! thats awesome!! Thank you again very very much.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:10 am
Wooooooooooooo, whoooooooooooo! Exceptional! Way to kill it day 4. No better way to go into stage 5! You are ready. Stay strong, powerful, determined, and HEALTHY. We are with you every step of the way. Oh, and awesome photos today! Great to see you! Definitely recognize the eye of the tiger.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 02:04 am
The boys are still up with me watching all your video clips and pictures....they think this is so cool that you are all over the internet....especially Conor. Good Luck with the remaining stages we know you can do it. Love Keith, Colleen, Conor and Patrick. Go George!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:48 am
George!
We've known you a long time and you continue to grow in stature and manliness. You are someone who is not afraid to push to the next level! We love you and are praying for your personal victory and for such a great cause.....fondly, Jim and Kathie
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:15 am
Way to go! I cannot imagine the mental and physical trials you face and overcome. You are a true inspiration on so many levels. Just know that you have a ton of support for each and every step you take!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:06 am
As Lou Holtz put it, "I can't believe that God put us on this earth to be ordinary." George, you are extraordinary!
Dig deep and finish strong! You got this!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 01:04 am
GEORGE - You are going to rock this!!! Your life is changing with every millisecond and this spirit and determination is forever tattooed on your soul!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:57 am
Sending you my never ending energy and you have inspired me to redevelop my sexy hamstrings! I wish I had shown you the proper techniques of pooping outdoors, put that on the list for the next race. Oh and bring be back a sexy camel, I like the spitters!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:34 am
Chm you motor boat those humps? You sailor you!
Theres a box of cigars waiting here at 14.5 waiting to be labeled as "victory". Good luck tomorrow and finish strong
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:25 am
I don't know what to say really. Three minutes till the biggest battle of our professional lives. It all comes down to today. Now either we heal as a team, or we're gonna crumble. Inch by inch, play by play, till we're finished. We're in hell right now, gentlemen. Believe me. And we can stay here, get the s**t kicked out of us, or we can fight our way back into the light. We can climb out of hell. One inch at a time.
Kick the crap out of that 54 miles!!!! YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:20 am
wow wow wow! Amazing! Keep believing!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:11 am
I don't know how to describe it but you have definitely surpassed "determination." I'm just glad you haven't set your sights on world domination.
Good luck tomorrow. I know you’ll pull through.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:09 am
George, My whole family has been following you. I have McCune Albright Syndrome and want to thank you for bringing all of our challenges in life to the front. Stay strong! You are giving everyone strength!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:04 am
George I am having my social studies class follow your race every day. Today Whitney and Terra sent me an email with all the pictures you are in and I put them up on the projector. As soon as the shirtless one went up the 8th grade girls made so much noise the principal came in to see what all the noise was about! And they can't wait for you to come visit! You have a LARGE fan club at Chesapeake Middle school my sweet boy. Good luck on this long leg. Everyone at the school is following you and cheering you on! Be your great self.
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:03 am
Uuunnbeeliiieevvvaaabllleeee ... glad to see you're building momentum, you're crushing it! Everyone I know has been living vicariously through you each and every day! Proud of you man and I'll leave you with this... "The only one who can tell you that you can't is you. And you don't have to listen. Instead, accept the challenge so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory."
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 11:56 pm
YOU ARE AMAZING!!! No sleep, 4 days, hurting, dehydrated...& yet you strive to better yourself. You are a force that cannot be stopped. I would love to be at that finish line to watch you cross waving the American Flag....YELLING GO GEORGE....GO GEORGE!!!!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 11:55 pm
George, what a finish in Stage 4! We are so proud of our MAGIC star. Tomorrow we will all try to work, but only one thing will be on our mind here at the office and that is YOU! Be safe and well. God's blessings for a strong finish.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 11:19 pm
Dig deep. Stick with what has worked so far. Change nothing in your approach. If you are struggling remember everyone else is too. Hydrate, eat and focus on what you can control. Everyone back home is behind you. If we could we be screaming in your ear with every step. Keep it up!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:32 pm
You are completely owning that desert. I am amazed at how focused and dedicated you have been throughout this whole race. The end is in sight and I look forward to seeing you wave that flag at the finish line.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:17 pm
George, I must apologize for my silence...but through the tears shed (every time I look at LuciAndGeorge.com & the Sahara race page), I could not find the words to express my gratitude to you, this absolutely amazing man that has given so much of himself for the people that I love more than anything in the world, and so many other families that he's never even met.
You astound, you amaze, you inspire, and you enlighten.
You are living proof that the excuse that 'one person can't make a difference' is, beyond any doubt, false. And with your fortitude, your strength, and the power & light that you exude, nothing can defeat you.
With all that I am, I THANK YOU! I look forward to the day that I can say that in person & shake your hand...& probably give you a big hug, too!
With all your dedicated followers & supporters, I send lots of love & energy your way everyday of this race, and especially tomorrow!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:12 pm
George, I\'ve been following your race and am in complete awe of you and your attitude. I guess it\'s the old endurance athlete in me coming out-- I am so pumped for you!
I have no doubt that you\'ll make it through the rest of the race, so don\'t take this the wrong way... My family has adopted this quote as sort of a code to live by, and I think it rings true for you and all of your competitors:
\"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.\"
-Theodore Roosevelt
Dare greatly. Be tough.
Good luck.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:12 pm
George, I've been following your race and am in complete awe of you and your attitude. I guess it's the old endurance athlete in me coming out-- I am so pumped for you!
I have no doubt that you'll make it through the rest of the race, so don't take this the wrong way... My family has adopted this quote as sort of a code to live by, and I think it rings true for you and all of your competitors:
"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat."
-Theodore Roosevelt
Dare greatly. Be tough.
Good luck.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:07 pm
Now I can't wait for the reunion--to catch up with a real superhero.
You inspire me, George.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 10:07 pm
Go George GO!!!! I am sooo freakin excited for you, and overwhelmed with pride (and anxiety! cause I am constanly waiting for updates)!!! You are doing so awesome! & have such an amazing attitude! You even made it on the 4 deserts update!!! I screamed! I would say keep your chin up but I suppose keep your chind down is better advice!!! We will anxiously await news until tomorrow... All our love is focused directly on you!!!! Keep strong!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:49 pm
George, Your attitude is all you can control at this point and you are in the zone. I'm so F'ing jealous. Way to Go!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:35 pm
"Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination and dedication. Remember, all things are possible for those who believe."
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:27 pm
Hell yeah. Incredible work today. Loved reading the "Stage 4" update about you pumping everyone up this morning. The Black Desert March separates the men from the boys and we know who has proved they've got the heart to take this stage down STRONG! Good luck bro.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:26 pm
WOW WOW WOW>
The game has changed.
You're steam rolling people.
Love it!!!!
Strength and focus tomorrow.
The energy vibes will be flowing your direction all day long.
Domination is near!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:11 pm
Slow methodically stalking!!! I knew you had that down pat in Boston...but glad it's serving you well in the Sahara as well. I think I can speak for most when I say that we wait with baited breath everyday for the results and blog to post. And everyday, we're even more astounded of how amazing you're doing. Tomorrow is going to be a tough day for all...seeing as how we probably won't get an update on your progress until Friday. We all might actually get some work done. Good luck buddy and finish strong. This is your race!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:09 pm
George: I getting fired up reading your email. The trading floor in New York is talking about your incredible feat every day, all day. You're going to be telling this story over and over again for many years to come. People are in awe of this accomplishment and each day you continue to inspire each and everyone of us. Stay focused, stay strong and stay healthy.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:04 pm
way to go goergie...way to take 'em down...number 6...gotta jump on the wednesday 5:15 call...you are in all of our thoughts and making us all very proud...h
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:03 pm
FFFFFFFFFFFF YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We are so pumped over here man!!!! i knew you had a good race when i saw the pics with the double-point!
\"When you win the time trials, you win the Alps, you win the team stage, and you win the Pyrnees,... there\'s nothing left to do but win the Tour de France.\"
GOOD LUCK TOMORROW.... we know you\'ve got it in you!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:03 pm
FFFFFFFFFFFF YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We are so pumped over here man!!!! i knew you had a good race when i saw the pics with the double-point!
"When you win the time trials, you win the Alps, you win the team stage, and you win the Pyrnees,... there's nothing left to do but win the Tour de France."
GOOD LUCK TOMORROW.... we know you've got it in you!!
27 October 2009 03:21 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
A little morning humor...a strong dose of reality
While Im lightheaded and buzzed from the heat and dehydration I figured why not clue everyone in on exactly how were living out here bc its absolutely ridiculous and so funny. First off...there are nine of us (yes nine) crammed in 10x10 tents every night. If you roll over to the right you elbow someone in the face, if you roll over to the left your face is in the sand and if you stretch your legs out youre playing footsie with a random guy from South Korea. At about 6am people start rustling around and very fowl smells start emanating inside the tent due to the cosmic activity taking place inside each of our stomachs. While youd like to get more sleep youre forced to get up bc the stench is unbearable. You muscle up enough strength to hit the campfire and mix boiling water with your favorite dehydrated breakfast and manage to force down about 800 calories of porridge or granola or some other god awful packaged meal. Within five minutes of finishing it...you immediately grab some moist towlettes and head to a hole with a cardboard box 100 yards away. You then go back to the tent, drain blisters and load up on vaseline and sun tan lotion while pounding water, electrolytes and pain killers. You put your shoes on, your feet kill, your shoulders are sore but you focus on completing another marathon. This will all be over in a few days and another hundred miles. You then make it to the start line, crank on the Rocky Soundtrack and go to work.
All jokes aside today was a very, very scary day. The heat was suffocating and many more competitors were unfortunately forced out. Ran by one guy today just totally zonked out on the sand needing help so a fellow competitor and I hightailed it 5k to the next checkpoing to let them know to come pick him up. There was also a runner who was lost on the course for sometime (staff in a panic) and I can tell you in this heat wihtout water youre dead within hours. Finally, in the biggest shocker of the day, Mehmet Danis (the winner of stages 1 and 2 and prohibitive favorite for the title) succomed to the heat as well and got sick and dehydrated on the course and couldnt keep water down. He ended up walking most of the second half and Im in absolute awe he was able to gut it out and cross the finish line but obviously hes very disappointed losing hours to the other guys up top. Shows you that this is as much a test of survival as anything else. You literally have yourself and your pack to rely on and no one else. Not just to cross the finish line but to stay alive.
As for my day - I started getting massive shin splints and shooting pains in my left calf about 14 miles into the race, bringing me to my knees temporarily. With 25k left on the day, I thought I was toast. But I managed to hobble the next 3 or 4k and meet up with an awesome guy Dave from the UK (who was looking strong but unfortunately was already DQd from the race bc he didnt complete stage 2) and we decided to push to the finish together. With the heat sapping our strength and nowhere to hide in the barren Sahara we decided to stick to a gameplan of running 4 minutes and walking the fifth and then crank it harder when we got decent footing on rocks and stone and on downhills. We managed to gut it out and I somehow was able to tell myself the shooting pains would go away and about 4 miles from the finish they subsided. Looking back Im not sure either one of us wouldve gotten through today individually but together we perservered and came in tied for 10th! Another top ten for the newbie from beantown. But with almost 80 miles remaining in the next two days Ive yet to learn the definition of pain and what it is to push myself beyond my outermost limits and find a new level of self-discovery. Thats coming soon though and all I can do is embrace it and respect the power of this place. Theres a reason no plants, animals or humans can survive living in these conditions.
Everyones comments have been amazing (Ive read them all several times) and were all in this together. Got a shot (and I stress shot) to have a memorable finish. These next two days will be pure hell...but when I return from the dark side Ill be much stronger bc of it.
Ps - If I ever complain about traffic, weather, lack of sleep, my reconstructed wrist or anything else of the sort please slap me, correct me or at least refer me back to this blog entry. But I doubt thats going to happen after this experience...its changed me. Im going to enjoy the things in life that truly matter much more and stop acknowleding the incidentals we have no control over.
While Im lightheaded and buzzed from the heat and dehydration I figured why not clue everyone in on exactly how were living out here bc its absolutely ridiculous and so funny. First off...there are nine of us (yes nine) crammed in 10x10 tents every night. If you roll over to the right you elbow someone in the face, if you roll over to the left your face is in the sand and if you stretch your legs out youre playing footsie with a random guy from South Korea. At about 6am people start rustling around and very fowl smells start emanating inside the tent due to the cosmic activity taking place inside each of our stomachs. While youd like to get more sleep youre forced to get up bc the stench is unbearable. You muscle up enough strength to hit the campfire and mix boiling water with your favorite dehydrated breakfast and manage to force down about 800 calories of porridge or granola or some other god awful packaged meal. Within five minutes of finishing it...you immediately grab some moist towlettes and head to a hole with a cardboard box 100 yards away. You then go back to the tent, drain blisters and load up on vaseline and sun tan lotion while pounding water, electrolytes and pain killers. You put your shoes on, your feet kill, your shoulders are sore but you focus on completing another marathon. This will all be over in a few days and another hundred miles. You then make it to the start line, crank on the Rocky Soundtrack and go to work.
All jokes aside today was a very, very scary day. The heat was suffocating and many more competitors were unfortunately forced out. Ran by one guy today just totally zonked out on the sand needing help so a fellow competitor and I hightailed it 5k to the next checkpoing to let them know to come pick him up. There was also a runner who was lost on the course for sometime (staff in a panic) and I can tell you in this heat wihtout water youre dead within hours. Finally, in the biggest shocker of the day, Mehmet Danis (the winner of stages 1 and 2 and prohibitive favorite for the title) succomed to the heat as well and got sick and dehydrated on the course and couldnt keep water down. He ended up walking most of the second half and Im in absolute awe he was able to gut it out and cross the finish line but obviously hes very disappointed losing hours to the other guys up top. Shows you that this is as much a test of survival as anything else. You literally have yourself and your pack to rely on and no one else. Not just to cross the finish line but to stay alive.
As for my day - I started getting massive shin splints and shooting pains in my left calf about 14 miles into the race, bringing me to my knees temporarily. With 25k left on the day, I thought I was toast. But I managed to hobble the next 3 or 4k and meet up with an awesome guy Dave from the UK (who was looking strong but unfortunately was already DQd from the race bc he didnt complete stage 2) and we decided to push to the finish together. With the heat sapping our strength and nowhere to hide in the barren Sahara we decided to stick to a gameplan of running 4 minutes and walking the fifth and then crank it harder when we got decent footing on rocks and stone and on downhills. We managed to gut it out and I somehow was able to tell myself the shooting pains would go away and about 4 miles from the finish they subsided. Looking back Im not sure either one of us wouldve gotten through today individually but together we perservered and came in tied for 10th! Another top ten for the newbie from beantown. But with almost 80 miles remaining in the next two days Ive yet to learn the definition of pain and what it is to push myself beyond my outermost limits and find a new level of self-discovery. Thats coming soon though and all I can do is embrace it and respect the power of this place. Theres a reason no plants, animals or humans can survive living in these conditions.
Everyones comments have been amazing (Ive read them all several times) and were all in this together. Got a shot (and I stress shot) to have a memorable finish. These next two days will be pure hell...but when I return from the dark side Ill be much stronger bc of it.
Ps - If I ever complain about traffic, weather, lack of sleep, my reconstructed wrist or anything else of the sort please slap me, correct me or at least refer me back to this blog entry. But I doubt thats going to happen after this experience...its changed me. Im going to enjoy the things in life that truly matter much more and stop acknowleding the incidentals we have no control over.
Comments: Total (99) comments
Posted On: 30 Oct 2009 03:11 pm
Whoever recommended that our George put a baked potato in his shorts did not do George a favor. He was on the verge of international stardom, attracting many of Whitney's girlfriends and super models throughout Europe.The 'potato" suggestion has been a disaster.Not only is it affecting George's stride, you should have told him the potato goes in the front. The resulting protrusion is why we never see any pictures of George from behind.The distortion has a corresponding effect of "little pyramid" syndrome. All of Whitney's friends are pyramid admirers so they are now out. George, the quest is glorious.The win is in the undertaking so please don't push yourself too hard.The blog notes alone will make you famous. It is as though I am running with you. We are planning your Pub Crawl marathon.Potato repositioning is a must. Whitney said that "I can't help the guy if he brings a French fry"-whatever that means.God Bless boy-be safe
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 09:43 pm
George, I trust that while I am writing this you are conquering the biggest test yet. Your mental toughness will drive you to the finish. We are all watching and anxiously waiting for the latest update. Finish strong, you are close! Then get back here and sell something!!!!!
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 04:30 pm
All, we should be very proud of George for being a leader in this race.Not only is he enduring environmental hardships, he is trying to relate with other runners from all over the world.We all know George's wonderful personality and wit so it is a good bet that he is making new friends around the world.Last night at the oasis, George got peeved by the Egyptian runner who kept bragging that his people started the civilized world and built the pyramids.George responded that the Czechs invented sex. The French runner said, "I accept that, but it was the French who invented sex with other people".Stay proud George
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 03:19 pm
George, we received your note.First, you did not have to defend your experience with the camel.No one expected you to be abstinent in the desert. Second, we are all getting many inquiries about your marriage status.I am telling all the women that it is the dehydration which allows you to wear such short shorts in the pictures. Can you have a better advocate?Whitney's girlfriends have all expressed interest; however, you must be camel free when you return.Please be safe
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 12:46 am
Way to go!! Keep making your magic!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:26 pm
Georgie, Congratulations on completing stage four and being in the top 10, WOW. We are so proud of you. OMG,Tomorrow is the killer. Georgie, Can you feel it? Really feel it? Can you feel the love pouring out to you, I can, we all can. LOVE is all you need. We are with you each step you take. When it seems like you can't go on, remember all of us are with you in spirit, pouring out our love, to give you the strength to make it to that finish line. We love you.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:22 pm
OK 5th place today and 6th place overall -- I'm speechless, and for me that is really saying something!! .........that's it, I'm speechless! So, In the words of Luci "Go George Go"!!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:00 pm
George, you are almost done and you are doing great! It's awesome that you are in 7th!
Get rest for tomorrow. Can't wait to read about how you crushed it.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 08:55 pm
Hey George- Glad to know that you are still going strong!! I have enjoyed reading all of your stories.. I will now stop complaining that I have to run in the rain.. Your almost done!!! Congrats!! An amazing feat you will accomplish for a great cause..
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 08:50 pm
George,
It's unimaginable what you are going through!! No matter the outcome of the race, you are already the big winner to all of us..... you've captured our minds and hearts with your dedication, strength and perseverance!
Lots of love & prayers,
"Mrs. H"
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 08:32 pm
George what you are achieving is beyond extraordinary. You are impacting so many lives and redefining the concept of strength and faith. You are truly awesome!!!
Keep going strong :)
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 08:16 pm
Just saw the pix from today's race. I can't imagine you can possibly feel as good as you look! They're awesome shots! Hope you had a good day, and can't wait to read the blog. Sleep well tonight -- you'll need everything for tomorrow. Sending you wishes for a swift , steady and painfree day. (or as close to that as possible). We are so proud of you -- I think you were put on this earth to do magical things. And you already have for so many. As always, with my love.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 07:57 pm
All I can really say is wow!! You inspire me to do more, to be more ...and you are having this impact on so many people everywhere. Your uncle proudly showed me this yesterday and I am hooked!! Rooting for you...you can do this, you are amazing!! Be safe!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 07:43 pm
I dig the George Michael shadow. Keep it going, man.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 07:21 pm
Hi George-
Love reading the blogs but make sure you are getting what rest you can. We are praying hard for your safety. Just saw your picture. It's posted from today's run. You look tired but at the same time very strong and determined. Please stay safe and we'll see you in July 2010!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 06:34 pm
George, Whitney sent us your camel pictures.Cheryl was so happy you chose a blond.And 2 humps too.Our little boy is all grown up.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 06:29 pm
George!! Nick is right! Stay away from the camels. I too have been training for the pub marathon. I will be on "your team" and we will beat the other two!! ha!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 06:10 pm
I bet there is nothing more in this world you would want than a sandwich! (Get it SAND-wich.) Just thought you would like some stupid humor to laugh to.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 06:05 pm
This is absolutely amazing to read. You both inspire and humble me with your determination and perserverence. Stay safe and know you are in our prayers.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 06:03 pm
I have to tell you that I took a different route last night as I train for my very tiny marathon, a whapping 3 mile lap, as I came to a hill... I was like crap how will I get up that and still be breathing... I thought of you climing that wall and almost fainting and quickly found myself sprinting up the hill. You are an inspiration to all, myself included! Thank you! I can guarantee you'll be a different person and want to slap everyone else when they complain LOL... Keep on fighting, we are all routing for you!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 05:53 pm
As we are an inspiration to you, you are likewise to all of us. This amazing adventure that you are taking part in will somehow, someway change all of us for the better. For myslelf this has inspired me to train for a marathon for the breast cancer foundation in Florida. I would of never imagined this because Im definately not the biggest fan of running but its something I always wanted to do. I will have to say on some of the long weekend runs without the thought of you I would of given up. To know that you are pushing yourself to the max makes, at least myslef realize that I am capable of so much more. I hope that with what you are doing all the peolple that are supporting you will use this as a strength for themselves sometime. I personally just wanted to say 'Thanks!"
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 05:26 pm
All of that physical and mental training is paying off...!! Awesome performance, George. LOL on the 200 or so going to relieve themselves out in the desert! ... So what's the definition of "adventure"?
I've been out there on a tourist camel ... and can only imagine what it takes to do this.
Finish strong as I know you will !!!
Cheers,
Alec =)
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 05:17 pm
Unreal, kid. You are truly an inspiration. Look forward to catching up upon your return.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 05:10 pm
George,
Amazing! Our kids are in awe of what you are doing for them! I did the AIDS Ride a few years back and that was tough - and nothing in comparison to what you are doing! We are thinking positive thoughts for you from LA!
Taj
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 04:32 pm
George, You are and always will be the biggest winner of this race to all of us and the kids! I know tomorrow is the most challenging with double the miles and my heart cries for what you are going through. Please, for MAGIC and the kids, do not feel the ultimate victory is finishing if it means harm to you. You are the most important person right now. We need you in Chicago in July, 2010, so many of the families and kids you support can thank you personally. In our eyes you passed the finish line the day you began! We love you and want you safe. Yes, we are pulling for you all the way but please remember that we need you safe as well.
Now, get your $%^& in gear, sleep well, even if you have to play with the south korean's toes! It could be worse! And a little taste of sand may not be that bad. If it was me out there I would be looking for the first Holiday Inn or Marriott with the 6 AM commotion you speak about. Oh yuk!!
Rest well my friend and MAGIC Hero....God speed with you all the way and remember, the little MAGIC angels will be by your side. FYI total: $56,207.!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:57 pm
I am so encouraged and in awe of your dedication to raise money for these children. I am reminded that your journey started long before the actual race began. Having seen my sister diligently train for a 10k race I see the dedication it takes to keep perservering and now you experience the true pain and life threatening conditions you trained for. It's in this that I'm reminded of this verse in the bible, Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Heb12: 1-2
Although I'm not sure wether you have trusted your heart to Jesus or even believe in God I hope this gives you courage and maybe something to chew on for the next few days. May the Lord give you strength to win the race with endurance!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:12 pm
George, the finish is in sight. Keep at it and stay focused... what you're doing is amazing
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:04 pm
I am just blown away at your tenacity and strength. Your conditions would kill me in hours and that you are running for days is totally awsome. A major life experience that will be forever. Congrats on making as far as you have. You are a proven man. Kathy and I am pulling for you hard. We love you and are praying hard that all continues well
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:52 pm
Keep it up, George! Amazing to hear how you are doing!...Thinking of you every step of the way...Thom
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:44 pm
Unbelievable Job!!! Keep it up. Your determination is like none I've ever seen! You're almost there! Keep your thoughts with Luci your driving force!! I see lots of drinks in your future. LOL!
My thoughts are with you!
Nikki
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:39 pm
George, You're half way there, and all the more impressive with the Top 10 finishes. Pace yourself for the end (not that I have any idea what I'm talking about). You didn't get mummy tummy which means you are one in a million , so you're going to finish this race I have no doubts. Enjoy the moments, the people, and the Sahara!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:36 pm
Go George Go! Trav and I are thinking about you constantly and sending you vibes for strength and health. You are an inspiration to so many! Thanks for your blogs and keep up the good work!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:32 pm
Keep up the hard work!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:28 pm
By now you must know what an inspiration you are to all of us but you should know that you have the same effect on the people who are running with you. Here is a section of ( your stage 3 running partner) Dave Mohring blog from yesterday ... "Ran/walked with an American guy called George for the final two stages - he's raised about $60,000 for charity and has managed to get interviews on Fox and in some of the national newspapers in the US. Inspirational stuff!"
I think your mom said it --- You have so much heart - and that is to your immense advantage George. You can't teach heart. Its there or it isn't. And you my friend -- well - it runs through your veins.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:20 pm
Another day down and I can't tell you how impressed I am with everything you're doing. Keep reminding yourself of the reasons you're doing this race, both personal and private, and I don't doubt you'll find the inner strength to finish - your body will get tired, but there's no amount of physical exhaustion that can tire the mind. In the words of Robert Frost, "The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep." Keep at it, don't give up, and we'll see you back here soon.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:12 pm
George ~ I have people in Pgh reading your blog daily and we are all amazed at what you are doing. God Bless hon, get some rest, tomorrow comes very quickly.
You have to leave the city of your comfort
and go into the wilderness of your intuition.
What you'll discover will be wonderful.
What you'll discover is yourself.
~ Alan Alda ~
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:04 pm
What an amazing journey ! The pride your parents must feel has to be overwhelming for them both. Go George Go...
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:59 pm
Boy, George you know some funny people!! Looks like your good humor rubs off on others....I almost pee'd myself reading Nick Kallis' post.....
Thinking of you today......
Kristen, Joe and Mia
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:57 pm
I have been reading your posts in complete amazement. Keep up the great work!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:57 pm
George,
WOW!! What else can anybody say. You are an inspiration to all. Be safe and know that we are pushing for you every step of the way. Peace:)
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:53 pm
wow, ok, so I dont cry much and i just read your blog and finished with tears...you are incredible, everythign you are going through and making it through just leaves me in aw. GREAT JOB, take care of yourself, beantown needs healthy George! xo
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:46 pm
impressed you can write this much after a day like that!!! It must be all of that grappa training!!! Keep going almost done.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:45 pm
George,
I have the honor of being the Mom of a little girl with RSS (Jillian) who has benefitted immensely from the existance of The MAGIC Foundation. I am also an RN at The Children's Hospital in Boston and witness stories of inspiration everyday - kids who are surviving against all odds and their parents who are advocating and being there for them 24/7 at the sacrifice of everything else.
You are an incredible inspiration to all of us - selfless, driven, charitable and caring beyond your years. However, I do think you are certifiably insane. I also think you wouldn't mind being locked up in a climate controlled psychiatric unit with decent meals and a bed and probably lots of medication!!
Joking aside, you are doing a wonderful thing which will be remembered for ever by the families whose lives you are touching. I hope the rest of your time in the Sahara goes by fast and you do not sustain any further injuries. Stay focused and remember you will soon be back in rainy cold Beantown!
Wishing you health, peace and happiness - Tori
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:43 pm
George, you are an inspiration to me. It is truly amazing to me the limits some people can over come through mental toughness. Hang in ther big guy. We will see you at the Pyramids.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:32 pm
Well done and thanks for running with Dave on stage 3, I'm his wife and have been watching his and your progress closely. Look after each other out there especially tomorrow on the big stage, good luck with getting to the finish!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:28 pm
First and foremost--Wow. Keep it up man. I just got done with kind of a stressful day in the classroom and reading your blog entry really picked me up. It's good to hear that you are learning from this experience. Good luck with the upcoming stages (espcially the long one). Keep your spirits up and don't lose your positive outlook and sense of humor--they makes your blog entries fun to read. I can't wait to see you cross that finish line brother!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:22 pm
George,
You are an inspiration to us all! We are proud to call you our cousin! Please stay well! We are with you every step of the way! We love You!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:10 pm
Rock on brotha!
Whit and Terra have already taken the no complaining to heart around here and plan on holding you accountable to it!
Stay strong for the next big stage and looking forward to havin ya back at 14 1/2
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:08 pm
George,
You're amazing! It's been really exciting reading your updates and your vivid descriptions of your experience. Easy for me to say, but it really is mind over matter. It sounds like your discovering that and you're a tremendous inspiration. We're all pulling for you.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:00 pm
So I had to work late last night and did not get a chance to see your update until this morning. I literally have enjoyed following you so much that I almost got up at 2am just to catch up from stage 3! You are amazing and this is the most amazing thing I have ever heard of anyone doing. You really will be a stronger person b/c of it. Our prayers continue to be w/ you!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:53 pm
Hey George,
What's the cap on the Gold Note again? Closes today, right?
Keep similin' and grinding. You the man.
Hayden
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:47 pm
George,
You are a machine!
2 good quotes to think about today.
1--"A man can only be beaten in 2 ways. If he gives up or he dies."
2--"Mind over matter. If you don't mind, then 'it' doesn't matter."
Best,
Josh
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:30 pm
Chm - an email I got at work...
Peter's daughter, Elizabeth is attending Boston College. The orientation message from Boston College to their incoming freshmen is:
"Whatever you do in life, make sure that you love doing it, you're great at it, and society needs it"
YOU ARE A BC GUY!!!!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:04 pm
George, be strong and smart. We want you back and ready to begin the next adventure.I know the camels are starting to look good to you, but your mother would not approve.Also, stay away from the oasis.The Arabs are always eating their dates there.Remember that the sleeping bag can be a tool for many things.That is all the advice I have boy.This is not a race-it is an act of courage and charity.There are many more adventures ahead.Your father and I are ready to participate with you in the Marathon Pub Race scheduled when you return. We have been in training all of lives for it.The angels of compassion and commitment sit upon your shoulders whil you run.Let them guide you to make good decisions.P.S.,please tell me you have adequate changes of underwear on hand.Dryness in the throat and wetness in the undies is not good.God Bless
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 11:05 am
Your descriptions of the circumstances you are enduring leave me breathless. I am just amazed by your fortitude and conviction. You are nothing short of amazing! The new photos on the website give me some comfort. You are still smiling that great smile of yours and sporting quite the 6 o'clock shadow! As has been every day, I am with your every step along the way and sending all my love. Stay the course and continue to run your race -- you have taken us all along with you for the race of all our lives! God speed and watch over you.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:45 am
And I was just complaining because I have been working for 22 hours straight and won't get sleep for another 18 hours....reading your blog reminded me to just be quiet! Those people around me are very grateful to you right now! :-)
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 09:39 am
You're doing an awesome job out there! An amazing recap of the events over the past few days for you...must feel like longer...for sure! Keep you pace in mind on the long run and always remember that you're accomplishing an amazing feat...you should be incredibly proud of your current endeavor!! Keep on keeping on bro...have a great next leg and just keep one foot in front of the other....And....I guess being stuck in a van with some CUTTERS won't seem quite confined any more. GO BRO....
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 05:17 am
Chim, keep it up man. Its amazing what your doing. Showed my boss today what you what I was looking at in the office and he was blown away and couldn't stop updating the news. Keep pushin and look foward to seeing you finish this!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:57 am
unbelievable what you're doing man. we're all here (Scott Ameen and roommates) rooting for you and checking in every day. totally blown away. keep going...you got this.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:44 am
Love it, absolutely amazing Chm. Keep pushing through the pain and remember why you're doing it and who you're doing it for!
"You're gonna have to go through hell, worse than any nightmare you've ever dreamed. But when it's over, I know you'll be the one standing. You know what you have to do. Do it."
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:43 am
George,
Keep on truckin' baby!
I closed my sales meeting this morning talking about where you are in the race (that was after 2 of the stages) and told everyone to send good thoughts your way...did you feel 'em? Also sent the link to your website, so hopefully that will get you some more eyeballs (and maybe some more dollars).
Sushi is my treat next time I see you!!
KC
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:43 am
Wow George you are doing great and we have no doubt at all that you will finish strong!
We talk about you every night and look forward to your updates.
You are the Man and we're pulling and praying for you!!!
Colossians 1-11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:48 am
Our daughter asked us tonight if you are a Yankee or a Met fan ?
so I am posting this question on her behalf
Faith
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:46 am
Dear George,
Ok so we are totally obsessed with you. So far every time I have read your posts my eyes fill up. what you are doing for Magic and their / our family is truly a blessing.
We reside in NY ,this Sunday is the NYC Marathon , a 26 mile run ,I always said even as a child as I watched. Wow ,how can they run so far I could never, well you know what George I am not a runner ,however if you would like to next year I am willing to train and run with "team George " for Magic.
You are bringing awareness to so many , I joined and posted your page on facebook. I am no longer a closet GHD IGF1D Mom ( see I said it after 2 months of GHT),you know why George because of YOU!
You can do this , my God yes you can ! When you come home I am sure a fan club would like to go to Boston to meet you , you are becoming a Magic celebrity !
I have plenty of "shots" for when you come , take your pick of dosage ,0.01-15.0 ,or would you prefer a "shot "glass of Jack Daniels ? Or Grey Goose? You take your pick.
Remember George you CAN do this .
Sending you extra special running vibes tonight
Love
F,A,F
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:24 am
George, some great pictures - and caught you on You Tube tonight. You've made some great - and very descriptive entries on the sights and sounds of the event - seems to me you would be a good reporter. Keep up the great work for a great cause. Always knew you were crazy - that is, crazy good.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:23 am
YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:13 am
George,
Damn Impressive!
You've gotta be the toughest person we know, both physically and most importantly , mentally.
T-bones for a double rack when you get back.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 02:08 am
for those who haven't seen yet, about 1:15 in... OUR BOY
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:55 am
Pain is temporary, Pride is forever. Get it!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:45 am
George, Ryan and I are sitting here talking about how unbelievable it is that you are doing this race. You are truly an inspiration to so many people. We\'ll be thinking about you all week! GOOD LUCK!!! Ryan and Allie
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:36 am
You are doing great! In the top 10 after all you've been through is incredible. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Stay strong-you're going to make it!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:32 am
MAD is impressed and wants to meet you when you get home.... donated more to MAGIC.$$$ spread the word. Your run is an inspiration and should encourage more to give!!! P.S. glued to the blog! can't wait to see how tomorrow goes for you. MAD and KGD
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:32 am
MAD is impressed and wants to meet you when you get home.... donated more to MAGIC.$$$ spread the word. Your run is an inspiration and should encourage more to give!!! P.S. glued to the blog! can't wait to see how tomorrow goes for you. MAD and KGD
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:30 am
George! We are so proud of you!! You are a true "mighty man"!! Keep pushing, pay attention to your body and do your best..can't wait to hear about everything!! We love you!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:27 am
7?! OK I was thinking god I hope he can finish today and you came in ###7777!!!!!! Hello strength lion.... You seriously rock!!! Wow! Thanks for the updates and obviously we are all sending you every ounce of energy we have left after doing our own race at home before now and tomorrow at 5pm when structured notes close.. ha ha . Nobody wants your ##s at home to fall because you are off running in the desert. '-))) Seriously thank you for your inspiration and hang on! only two more days ahead and finish into the mouth of the pyramids! Be Strong and know we are all thinking about you!!! Did I already say YOU ROCK!!! KGD
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:23 am
Just think - the farther you run the farther the distance from the morning tent ambiance. RUN!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:03 am
George,
We are so humbled. Like many others we are fixated on the website every chance we can get. We had 3 (yup 3) separate Dr.'s appts. today, but nothing was stopping us from rushing home to get our update. We gave Mia the fastest tubby on the planet and then out to the site to check your update. I think this will sum it up best - tonight while saying prayers, we said with Mia (3 yo) "Send your guardian angels to watch over Mr. George" and she said "God Bless, Mr. George".
Have a great night tonight - rest our dear friend. Be Safe. Be Strong. Be like the Wind.....
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:58 am
Per your PS note, I have printed out several copies of the Stage 3 blog post and have strategically taped them in various locations of the house, ie fridge, bathroom, ceiling of your bedroom, so when ever you're thinking life is bad, you can reflect on how much worse it has been. :) But really, we're all so proud of you and think you're doing an amazing job. Just truck along and keep up the good fight!!!
PS. Whitney hasn't crashed the car...yet.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:56 am
You've got what it takes and we're all rooting for you! You're the MAN!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:31 am
And remember:
'Running Rewards Pain!'
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:31 am
Wow George, you are amazing. Keep it up, hang in there. You have changed all of us by simply bringing us along on your incredbile journey. I am not going to sweat the small stuff anymore, I will simply think of you and all that you are going through and change my perspective. You are an inspiration, I will be thinking about you. go go go go
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:28 am
George,
Another killer stage.
When you have shin splints the most effective stretch is to point your toe and trace the letters of the alphabet. Lower case, then upper. This should relieve some pain and tightness.
You're killing it! Just keep moving!
SDA
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:22 am
As the saying goes...'some people come into to our lives for a moment;...sounds like the right person came into your life at the right moment. You however have come into our lives for a lifetime...we will never forget what you have done for Luci & MAGIC. Your determination is amazing & I know many more MAGIC kids will gather inspiration from your accomplishment. Know you have many positive thoughts each & every moment of the day.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:18 am
Go George GO!!!! (yes, that's been my mantra, and find myself thinking it and repeating it a zillion times throughout the day!!!!) TY for diligently keeping us posted!!!
I agree there are not enough photos of you or updates on the main website... LOL I have gone through them all several times! I would greatly appreciate it if you would email pictures (of you there and your favs from the race!) once your home, so that we can hang them on our wall and have it serve as a constant reminder of what we are each capable of when we blast through the struggles that attempt to hold us back!!!
What you are doing means the world to our family, as well as SOOOO many others! I cannot wait for the day when I can tell Keegan what you did in the name of kids like him!
You are amazing!!!! Keep pushing forward!!! We are proud beyond words!
All our love and positive thoughts sent your way!!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:09 am
typed by mom Megan:
Keep up the good work that you have started and we really want people to knwo about the MAGIC Foundation. And use indomitable spirit and perseverence in your run. Thanks for running for my sister. I appreciate it.
Michael (Emerence's Brother)
note from mom- Michael is a jr. black belt in tae kwon do and he the "indomitable spirit and perseverence" come from his mouth not mine!)
WTG George...keep very safe.
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:08 am
George! You are truly amazing! All day I was checking my computer to see if the Stage 3 results were in...when I saw your time I was blown away! Just know that so many people are cheering for you and inspired by your determination. No matter what happens you have already accomplished so much! We love you and can't wait to have you back in Boston!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:07 am
First off thanks for posting another blog, I'm sure you are tired and need rest.
Second, you have changed many lives over the past few days and weeks/months for that matter.
Third, and I want you to carry this with you for the rest of the race: As you know we try to provide Luci with a "normal life" as much as possible cosidering her condition. However, there are going to be times in her life (as well as mine and Jolie's) when the word "can't" is going to cross our paths, and know that we as parents will always have this race and what you are accomplishing to reference and use to not only tell Luci she can do anything she puts her mind, heart and soul behind but for Jolie and I to look back upon and use when we reach our darkest moments with Luci at the emergency room or when she is sick or when she is in a state of "crashing" and we will now be able to use you as our real life example that anything is possible and we can forge forward and get thru anything that comes our way. To keep fighting and never to give up.
We've always believed that God will only give you what you can handle. And at times when you are having trouble he sends angels to help guide and protect you and those you love. You George have become our angel. Showing not only us but for everyone one else who is following this race that anything is possible...
Keep pushing!! You can do this!!!!!
Love Always,
The Horvath's
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:06 am
typed by mom Megan:
Hi George, thank you for running for me. I hope you have a safe run. I'm really happy for you for running. Do you like the desert?What temperature is it? good night, Emerence age 6, South Shore MA, Small for Gestational Age (MAGIC foundation member)
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:04 am
I've been reading each blog entry each day to see how this thing is rolling out for you and have been impressed each time I read it. Keep rolling along, remember its all mental but stay safe. Keep those terminator eyes on prize!!
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 12:00 am
Like Whitney, I may need to explain to my IT department why I have spent so much time on this site. I can't help it because what you are doing is amazing. You have taken crazy to a whole new level.
Keep going strong buddy and if you finish in the top ten...I will admit that Penny was better than Kidd!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 11:45 pm
Chmiel -- I literally check this 10,000 times a day to wait for your post ... its gotten to the point where my entire office is at my computer asking questions and cheering for you. Everything you've done thus far is incredible man. We're all behind you and know that if anyone finishes, its going to be you. You are the highest ranked American and sitting in the top 10 ... Thats f'ing unbelievable! Keep grinding away and best of luck!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 11:32 pm
Now I know why Gladiator was always one of your favorite movies. You continue to inspire all of us through your determination, mental toughness, and having the heart of a lion. ...you are truly a amazing son. Stay safe, try to get some rest. Love PaPA Chm
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 11:11 pm
"Chorus: Don't need nothin' but a good time
how can I resist
Ain't lookin' for nothin' but a good time
and it don't get better than this"(Poison)
GO Uncle George! (I promise I haven't eaten anything in your room!)
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:59 pm
I don't know what to write anymore because each blog you post you become more and more of an inspiring person. Know that we are all behind you 1,000,000%. Get some sleep and I can't wait to hear tomorrow's blog. BE SAFE!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:49 pm
SO proud!!! every time i get online and hit refresh refresh refresh refresh all day and then BAM results are up and i almost get choked up every time i see youre hangin tough AT THE TOP. its like the first rocky movie. to start out, he's thinking it's a joke and he's just a sparring partner. then, he starts building confidence and hoping that he can just survive the fight and go the distance. then by round 13, its no freakin joke anymore, starts to believe he can WIN THIS THING. LETS GO CHMIEL!!!!!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:44 pm
I'll tell you what...I'm going to have a lot of work and school work to do next week because I either look at the entire Sahara site, email with your friends, or our roommates about how we think your doing and anxiously await your name to appear in any article or video on this site. George you're strengh is amazing. Take your time and feel all our hands on your back pushing you from behind!
GO YOU CZECH SOLDIER!!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:35 pm
What Beels said! We need more pics! I can't believe what you are going through, and amazed that you can keep your sense of humor.
Continued thoughts and prayers!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:33 pm
George;
At this point so glad you are young, what a race. Keep your eyes on the finish line.
What stories you will have to tell in the future. Keep pushing and good luck.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:32 pm
I've been on the edge of my seat all day waiting for your blog! Tell those people to take more pics and videos of you! You're in the top 10 and a rookie for christs sake we want to see you and know you're okay!! I can't imagine how humbling this experience is for you. We knew this was going to be big, but this is just incredible. You're like the Angelina Jolie of ML hahaha! Get some rest, you're in my thoughts and prayers, and I am currently building you a sweet new set of legs complete with wheel feet so you will never have to worry about shin splints or blisters again :) This is for the MAGIC kids' futures, you're a hero. Lots of love.
26 October 2009 02:21 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
50 down...100 to go
Alright so Im sitting here laughing hysterically at nothing bc today was so absurd. Maybe Im delirious...cleary Im depleted. But I somehow gutted out another strong day coming in sixth beating a number of really strong runners and putting some distance on the peloton. But today was so much harder, six miles longer and really took its toll on me and a number of competitors dropped out. This whole race is so much more difficult than you couldve ever anticipated without prior experience. Started off in the white desert surrounded by gorgeous rock formations carved from the wind, many resembling the shapes of animals. We then got into some really really soft brown sand in a barren wasteland that seemed to go on forever. No signs of life, just completely beating up your quads and calves. At that point my ipod died (Hey Apple - official complaint from Egypt...thanks for Sahara proofing the latest nano!) and I thought I was toast with still ten to go. My feet were killing me, shooting pains in my left quad, major open wound on my left neck from backpack chafing. If it wasnt for all of your support I probably wouldve shut it down right there as at least five runners started to catch up to me. But I gutted it to the final checkpoint, got out the backup ipod, refueled and told myself that theres no chance Im walking it in. The next five or six miles was the most breathtaking view Ive ever seen my entire life. Your talking about a perfect and untouched ocean of crystal white sand in every direction for as far as the eye can see with massive sand dunes in the distance. Here I got into a great rhythm and pulled away from the guys behind me. Then on mile 25 got to the dunes and realized I had to climb up and down six of them before making it to the finish. Think crawl is the appropriate way to describe getting up these bad boys. Almost fainted getting to the top of the first one but once I did I could see the finish line in the distance so I kept moving. Legs completely gave out on the third one and I fell almost sliding down the side of it losing my sunglasses and ripping my gaiters...much steeper than you would expect. After surviving the dunes I pushed hard to the finish and kept those other runners comfortably behind me.
Damage to date: This is where it gets good. Legs feel like bricks, quads and calves are totally blown out and left knee is swollen. Eight blisters (each toe on both feet excluding the big boys has now been popped). Also two blood blisters. Open wound on my left neck that Im having treated. Little tired as well but other than that ok for the most part and stomach seems to be hanging in there. All I know is that this is one week of torture and pales in comparison to the sacrifices the Horvaths and other MAGIC families make on a daily basis. I keep that thought close to my vest as I realize Im fortunate to be healthy enough to attempt this feat. And that couldnt be a bigger driving force. Thanks to everyone for all the messages...couldnt do it without you.
God willing another good day tomorrow...apparently its much of the same.
Alright so Im sitting here laughing hysterically at nothing bc today was so absurd. Maybe Im delirious...cleary Im depleted. But I somehow gutted out another strong day coming in sixth beating a number of really strong runners and putting some distance on the peloton. But today was so much harder, six miles longer and really took its toll on me and a number of competitors dropped out. This whole race is so much more difficult than you couldve ever anticipated without prior experience. Started off in the white desert surrounded by gorgeous rock formations carved from the wind, many resembling the shapes of animals. We then got into some really really soft brown sand in a barren wasteland that seemed to go on forever. No signs of life, just completely beating up your quads and calves. At that point my ipod died (Hey Apple - official complaint from Egypt...thanks for Sahara proofing the latest nano!) and I thought I was toast with still ten to go. My feet were killing me, shooting pains in my left quad, major open wound on my left neck from backpack chafing. If it wasnt for all of your support I probably wouldve shut it down right there as at least five runners started to catch up to me. But I gutted it to the final checkpoint, got out the backup ipod, refueled and told myself that theres no chance Im walking it in. The next five or six miles was the most breathtaking view Ive ever seen my entire life. Your talking about a perfect and untouched ocean of crystal white sand in every direction for as far as the eye can see with massive sand dunes in the distance. Here I got into a great rhythm and pulled away from the guys behind me. Then on mile 25 got to the dunes and realized I had to climb up and down six of them before making it to the finish. Think crawl is the appropriate way to describe getting up these bad boys. Almost fainted getting to the top of the first one but once I did I could see the finish line in the distance so I kept moving. Legs completely gave out on the third one and I fell almost sliding down the side of it losing my sunglasses and ripping my gaiters...much steeper than you would expect. After surviving the dunes I pushed hard to the finish and kept those other runners comfortably behind me.
Damage to date: This is where it gets good. Legs feel like bricks, quads and calves are totally blown out and left knee is swollen. Eight blisters (each toe on both feet excluding the big boys has now been popped). Also two blood blisters. Open wound on my left neck that Im having treated. Little tired as well but other than that ok for the most part and stomach seems to be hanging in there. All I know is that this is one week of torture and pales in comparison to the sacrifices the Horvaths and other MAGIC families make on a daily basis. I keep that thought close to my vest as I realize Im fortunate to be healthy enough to attempt this feat. And that couldnt be a bigger driving force. Thanks to everyone for all the messages...couldnt do it without you.
God willing another good day tomorrow...apparently its much of the same.
Comments: Total (98) comments
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 03:37 pm
George, your Mother just sent me pictures.I am worried that you are confused.When I warned you about camel "hazards", I did not mean for you to wear the "bag" on your foot. Oh well....
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:12 pm
AS NICKY AND KRISTINA CHEER"GO GEORGIE GO!" KEEP TELLING YOURSELF YOU CAN DO IT AND ITS MAKING A DIFFERENCE! HANG IN THERE ! WE LOVE YOU!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 09:44 pm
WOW...7th! You are DA' MAN! SO impressed, get some sleep, be safe and we are all here cheering! xo
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 09:22 pm
What an inspiration!! It is just amazing what you are doing!! We patiently await your daily update....7th place is AWESOME!!! Stay strong and safe… and don't worry, sales will be up by tomorrow, in typical Behman/Smith style we are ticketing 'till the end!
God bless.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 09:16 pm
George,
Watching intently and incrediby impressed with what you are doing. So many are with you....you are making a difference.
Keep going strong.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 09:13 pm
George, I am crying with pride and pain thinking about what you are enduring. Can't help the motherly instinct in me -- want to be there to ease the pain. Hope you know I'm always with you -- every single step you take.
We're getting on board with Uncle Richie's challenge as are many others. You have inspired so many -- Your courage, determination, and HEART! Sleep well, take care, and God bless. With all my love.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 09:11 pm
George, You are incredible! I am mom to two SGA kids, and the SGA division consultant for MAGIC. I cannot thank you enough for what you are doing for our kids and the foundation. I wish you strength and peace as you continue on your journey! You are doing SO much to help so many children. Please know that you are touching countless lives, and doing so much to help others understand the world of children with disorders that affect their growth. Praying for you daily!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:57 pm
This is all beyond belief to me. An amazing journey--and so inspirational. Stay safe.
We will see you soon
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:50 pm
George – Way to go, what an unbelievable Anniversary tribute you have been able to pull together for Magic!
Keep it going and know that we are waiting on pins & needles everyday to hear how you finished! Get some rest and take care of your feet!! I believe now more than ever that you can do this!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:35 pm
George, you are keeping me very busy here in the office!!! The donations keep coming in! You are MAGIC"s special star. God bless you and keep you well.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:24 pm
You are amazing!!! Get some rest and hydrate! We are all cheering for you!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:16 pm
georgie...7th place after stage 3...AWESOME...amazing to follow you day-by-day on this site...keep pushing but be careful - when all the checkpoint staff handing out water start looking like brian handing out a prospectus you better start slowing down...comments and photos are great...be safe...you are quite the inspiration...h
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 08:04 pm
I am SOOOOOOOO PROUD of you!!!!!!!
Hang in there Chm!!!!!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:52 pm
I saw your big 7th place finish!! You are doing so well. Remember slow and steady also wins the race. Get some sleep... patiently waiting for your next blog!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:41 pm
George you are doing amazing! I\'m so proud of you and keep it up, you\'re almost there!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:40 pm
You are truly an inspiration! Keep running, climbing and know that we are ALL here thinking of you every minute of every day! Stay safe, Sue
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:28 pm
thanks to your uncle richie for putting a new challenge out to your supporters ... count me in for a second donation!
can't wait to hear about stage 3!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:27 pm
Keep it up George!! You're doing a great thing, so keep fighting through the pain.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:27 pm
God Bless you George!!! You are so brave to take on this great race! I love how completely unselfish you are and may God be with you and bring you home safe! Enjoy the race while you\'re there and all it has to offer. I\'ll be watching the blog updates closely! GO GEORGE!! :)
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:26 pm
If you go to the pictures of stage three there is a great pic of George at a rest station. A looks tired but good.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:25 pm
Wow, I'm way out of touch with the St. Mary's crowd but just got an e-mail from someone about this- truly amazing! Sounds like you have some incredible support behind you and I'll add mine to that- keep going, you're doing great! Pain is temporary!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:22 pm
God Bless you George!!! You are so brave to take on this great race! I love how completely unselfish you are and may God be with you and bring you home safe! Enjoy the race while you're there and all it has to offer. I'll be watching the blog updates closely! GO GEORGE!! :)
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:12 pm
Chm-Chmeney-Chm-Chmeney-Chm-Chm-Cheroo.
Incredible job George. You are such an inspiration to us Saints.
Good luck!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:11 pm
Chim! BE STRONG, STRONGEST MAN ALIVE! I thought the idea of you doing this was insane but the way you are dominating mentally and physically is more than anyone could ask for. Then again, what did people expect, its "YOU!"
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:10 pm
Hey George !
Great reading about your adventure! Just remember, the pain is temporary, your impact is permanent!! Keep moving !!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:08 pm
WOW. What you're doing is amazing George! Kick that sands ass, and take in the great views, you're doing a fantastic job out there. Be strong!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 06:34 pm
EAT RAW MEAT!!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 06:09 pm
Go George! We're all watching and cheering for you. Good luck!!! Tom
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 05:55 pm
What's up buddy. I googled "marathon signs" so I could post some inspirational message. here's what I found ..."keep going, don't stop, take a dump in your pants if you need to." Good luck and keep us posted...the more details the better.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 05:51 pm
Truley, you are self sacrificing and an unbelievable inspiration. What a fantastic gift you are giving to the Magic Foundation and the Horvath Family. I look forward to your blog each day. God Speed George. Gena
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 05:27 pm
You're an animal! Keep it up man!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 04:34 pm
George! You are an inspiration to us all. Keep pushing! You are absolutely incredible & we all know you have the strength and determination to get it done! Lots of prayers are with you George!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 04:25 pm
George,
It sounds like there is no way to prepare or train for the physical aspects of this challenge....BUT you've proven you are there mentally and you will cross this finish line!!
You're amazing, it's so inspiring to see what a positive will can conqer. Keep on keeping on!!
Sue
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 04:21 pm
"Other than that I feel awesome"....Perfect George...and in classic form!! You looked and sounded fantastic....Death Valley has nothing on you now!! Keep it up bro....
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 04:17 pm
George...........I was crying when I read the section where you said your pain was nothing compared to what these kids go through. And Uncle Richie, I'm with you and donating another $500. We love you George, the MAGIC Hero of our hearts!!! All of the little MAGIC angels are pulling for you. God's speed.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 03:49 pm
George, you are the Man. Keep it up... take care of those feet. We are all VERY proud of you.
Be safe my friend.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 03:43 pm
Geo ~
"When I go after something, I want to go after it with everything I have. I want to push myself to the edge. "
~ Greg Norman
Keep pushing Geo.
Aunt Audrey & Uncle Bern
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 03:01 pm
GO George GO!
Blisters and all, we love you man! Thanks for doing this for our kids!
You are amazing!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:51 pm
George, you are an amazing and wonderful man! God be with you as you strive to complete this race. You are such a hero to all our MAGIC kids! Good luck finishing the race, you are in our prayers!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:42 pm
I'm at a loss for words! You are absolutely amazing and still seem so upbeat in the video ... Everyone check out George in the video "Leading the Pack".... GO GEORGE!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:39 pm
1 word...WOW
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:37 pm
Dude. This is incredible. Just keep that Motley cranked and you'll be alllll good.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:31 pm
Truly amazing and inspiring George!! Sounds like this is one of the hardest things you'll ever do in your life, but something that is life altering as well. And that you are doing it for Luci and all the Magic kids (including my son) means a great deal to all of us!!! Good luck!!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:01 pm
George, keep up the great work. I think what you are doing, and more importantly why you are doing it is amazing.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:52 pm
FYI -- this is awesome -- there is about a 2 minute video (on the main page) that George is a part of -- titled 'The Leading Pack''. Hell Yeah!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:46 pm
George, keep at it bud! Two strong finishes in two days is an amazing feat and you're going to have to dig deep to pull out numbers 3, 4, and 5. We're all gunning for you for here - if there's anyone who can finish this standing up and running strong it's you. God speed, stay strong, believe.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:43 pm
George,
Wow! just WOW.... I cannot believe how amazing you are. Your endurance is incredible, astounding, and any other superlative you can think of.
You are in our thoughts and prayers, every night as I give my baby his injection, and every day as I read this.
Stay safe, and keep up the great work.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:39 pm
George you're doing GREAT!!! Ok, ok, minus the swollen knee, blisters and open neck wound... yet even with all that, this incredible energy is radiating from your blogs… between the incredible vision of the Sahara that you’ve painted for all of us and the struggles of the race that you overcome day by day, I’m at a loss for words except to say you’re doing GREAT! It’s incredible, spectacular, impressive and inspiring!!! (I thought of a few more words :)) Get lots of rest, take care of yourself and basically just keep doing what you’re doing! P.S. I'm taking Uncle Richie's advice and making another donation because I hope it's a little bit of fuel I can send to you from here and boy you and all the people who are helped by the Magic foundation certainly deserve it!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:18 pm
George - I am so impressed by what you are undertaking that I am now telling complete strangers about you. Stay strong. As Merrill said, we need you back in Boston.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:09 pm
Love Merril's comment. Hope you are taking it slow and steady today. The roomies and I are going to buy you a walker and pimp it out Lil John style for the party. Sending you buckets of love out there. Stay safe! :)
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:59 pm
Be like the shirt says....RUN LIKE AN ANIMAL.....
Thinking and worrying about you on Dune Day!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:31 pm
Georgie, We are so proud of you!!! Our family blood runs thru your veins. When you hurt,we hurt, but when you give that last ounce of yourself we feel the pride.
ATTENTION EVERYONE
Let's give George encourgement and a BIG SURPRISE. Let's duplicate our donations to the Magic foundation. I know times our tough but look what George is willing to do to help. Lets give George the strength to make it to the finish line by hitting the $75,000 mark We all love you.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:24 pm
George,
SI sales down, need you back here so keep going but stay safe. Remember out in the desert I am watching you.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:10 pm
Jorge,
I am so inspired by what you are doing. Even though you are all beat up keep on going !! Remember - you have youth on your side - Upon your return, the headlines in the Globe will read: "Chmiel Conquers Sahara With Smile on his Face !"
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 11:38 am
So, i was about to fall asleep last night and Jeff came running into the bedroom with his laptop and said "WAIT, you need to read George's Blog!", EVERYONE is following you and cheering for you!! You are amazing, keep it up! xoxo
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 11:00 am
I think what you are doing is amazing-both physically and because of the support you have given to affected kids like my own. If we all were lifted up by people like you, the world could work wonders. Thank you.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:56 am
Keep pushing Chm! Those dunes got nothing on you!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:56 am
Hey George-
I was up several times last night checking on the status. I'm going to join Faith and the other MAGIC families. Listen.....here we go!!!! WOOOOO HOOOOOO! I know we can't be there in person, but listen very closely in the wind and you can hear us cheering for you!!!! Our prayers our with you. Stay safe!
Tamera
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 10:01 am
George,
Sounds great! Keep doing your best!
Sleep and rest with your legs elevated.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 05:01 am
Rise and shine. Another big day out there.
Just chant this mantra through your head today, "I crushed the fundraising goal and delivered an all time record raise for Magic; This will change the lives of many; I am the only American in the top ten of the second most difficult endurance competition in the world; After today I'm 1/2 way there; And there are thousands of people out there that are cheering me along right now!"
Go get 'em bro.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 03:24 am
Wow way to go George, keep fighting the good fight! We all are rooting you on man, you are never alone and are in our prayers to the finish.
Take care out there!!!
The Gerardis.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 03:11 am
George ,
As I sit here reading your blog I have tears in my eyes . You are such an inspiration and can't wait to read your latest blog to my daughter tomorrow .Hey she want's to know if you plan on going to the Magic convention ,she wants your autograph :)
I sounds like a long journey ,however you are doing it and I know you will continue to , "we are cheering you on "...can you hear us ? WOOOO HOOOO GO GEORGE
When it gets really hard and you do not think you can go anymore think about why you are doing this , it's not for the beautiful sites ( ok maybe they are a perk ) , not to say you did this race ,its for all the Magic families and children .
We cannot thank you enough
Keep up the good work
Much Love and Support from NYC
F,A,F
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:41 am
This is amazing to read! Everyone's thoughts and prayers are with you. You are an inspiration!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:19 am
Way to go George!! Everyone on the NY desk is so proud of you. Keep up the good work and stay strong. You can do it!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:17 am
I was telling your story tonight to some friends at dinner, and their first question was, "Is he crazy?". My quick answer was "yes, he's always been a little nuts", but the truth is that you have always been very dedicated to whatever you put your mind to and this will be no exception. I know you can do this not only because you are one stubborn s.o.b., but because you live to challenge yourself and achieve amazing things. You are inspiring so many people, even those you don't know - so keep rocking it Chm! We can't wait to hear more glory/gory stories!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 02:10 am
Hock-meal,
I am PROUD of you, brother! How great is it that you're still laughing, and you're able to drink in all of the memories and the sights in this amazing trip of a lifetime...You're pulling some amazing weight for Luci and the other MAGIC kids, but what a great experience for YOU.
Keep on killin; it, baby!!
KC
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:42 am
George, you are doing awesome! We all knew you would rock this! 5th place...that is huge! Hang in there with all the blisters...you'll get through it. We are all thinking of you back here! Stay strong and positive!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:38 am
George - You are amazing! Congrats on the strong finish! I hope you have another great day tomorrow.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:31 am
Yeah baby...Grin and Bear it!! And awesome on your strong finishes through your stages so far. Power through a few of those meals in a bag...and settle in for a few hours of R&R. Drink what you can bro...and have a great leg tomorrow!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:20 am
Hope you are getting some rest, and that it's helping. You continue to amaze us each day! Way to rock it today, despite what must be so obviously painful. Hang in there. You got this!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 01:11 am
Wow! Amazing! from the 100+ families across the globe - GRACIAS GEORGE! from Colombia to Ecuador to Brazil to Chile to Spain they are behind you!!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:45 am
OMG!!! You are Amazing!!! We are all glued to your blog everyday! So proud of what you're doing.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:42 am
George, JUST AMAZING!!!
we're all glued to our computers waiting to hear about each day's progress. you've got an army here pulling for you. keep it up and rest those tired dogs!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:38 am
WOW!!! That is about the only word I can think of. It is amazing that you can finish each day & still have the energy to communicate with all of us. We are supporting you in your valiant effort. You are a force to be reckoned with. Keep up the GREAT JOB!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:37 am
As Nicky said to tonight as I read your blog " :Keep it up cuz because we love you!" I think that it sums it all up! Hang in there your doing great!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:33 am
amazing.....I can't wait to get these updates each day!
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:33 am
I don\'t know how you can possibly type (or read) after a day like that. Sorry about your iPod.
You are INCREDIBLE.
Thanks for all you\'re doing for the Magic kids!
Get some sleep.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:33 am
I don't know how you can possibly type (or read) after a day like that. Sorry about your iPod.
You are INCREDIBLE.
Thanks for all you're doing for the Magic kids!
Get some sleep.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:30 am
I have said this before and with this insane journey I will say it again. You are a complete animal!!! Killing it out there bro. Keep up the good work.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:26 am
Can't type on my iPhone cause my eyes are all filled up with tears. Wow George! Look at what you have done already for so many people. Ok. I'm praying for ya!!! Go fast and be strong tomorrow! You rock!!!! Kgd
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 12:16 am
George,
You are AMAZING!!!! You are awe inspiring. You are a HERO!!! KEEP GOING!!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:52 pm
GEORGE you are so amazing! Terra and I went for a 3 mile run today and we wore our shoes really tight to try and get a 1/100,000,000 of an idea of how you feel. Um yeah not even close :)
When you feel that you can't go any longer put yourself back in the Ulmstead woods, imagine Loco and Ford yelling 5-0 and pretend you have to get away from the cops so your mom doesn't find out!!!!
OR you can just think about being at Foxwoods in 11 days!!!
MISS YOU LOVE YOU!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:36 pm
George,
Jim B. and I are making the drive back from Burlington, VT right now in sheer awe of what you are accomplishing.
The Mai Tai's next time we go up there are on me and I'll drive home and you can sleep.
Keep up the amazing work and the positive thinking. You are an inspiration.
Mike and Jim
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:19 pm
CZECH CHM!! Truly unbelieveable man...these updates are amazing. Keep churning and know that we're behind you. GO BARRY GO!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:12 pm
George, it is so exciting to follow the race and your progress! Keep up the good work--we're thinking of you!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:52 pm
George, i can't say it any better than anyone else already has ... you are a total rock star and you have my eternal admiration! keep digging deep; i can't imagine how hard it is but you have so many people here pulling for you. it's great that you're still laughing! every day i wake up inspired by this quest and know that everyone following this site hourly waiting for the next update feels the same way. SO impressed that you are staying at the front of the pack - the definition of tenacity and determination. Stay healthy, get rest, hydrate, and let us know how tomorrow goes!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:41 pm
Insane is a great word to use here..."Star" is another great one. Get some much needed rest....we wait for tomorrow's update with great hope.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:37 pm
George,
Hello from nearby CT!! We anxiously await every update on the blogs and breaking news emails.
I cannot believe that you are so couragious to do this to raise awareness for our families!!
The 4 Deserts website posted your Fox interview and newstory today on the Main Page! You also had some killer pics of you on the pic section too - LOVE THAT YOU'RE WEARING THE MAGIC SHIRT!! We look for that in the photos so we can find you!!
Please know this our new "cyber friend" - you have our loving support at home and everyone is routing for you and ultimately what this brings for awareness for our children!!
You are what professional athletes often aspire to be - an inspiration!
It means so much that someone who watches what we go through from the outside is just so amazing to reach far inside themselves to understand what our exhausted families go through.
You can stand in the "hero" line next to our daughter any day!!
Stay safe,
Stay strong,
Be like the wind.
Joe and Kristen - mom to Mia and Magic Parents SOD/ONH
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:26 pm
dude, LOVE the use of the word peloton.
update from AC over the weekend (guess i have to do this in a public forum since its your only communication to the civilized world):
tennessee gets 2 field goals blocked in 4th quarter and loses to #1 bama by 2 points. angry dave starts betting big on craps tables to make himself happy. has entire table painted, and its about 1:58am our time (2 mins until you start the race). the guys knew the deal, shot of petron at 2am. i say "we cant do it right now because i have the table painted." next roll: crap out. my friends all told me i deserved every bit of what i lost for trying to delay the shot. we did it at 2am on the spot.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:18 pm
I'm the mom to Ian 5 yrs, same condition as Luci. We're proud of you and we're keeping you in our prayers. My kids are just amazed at what you are doing!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:15 pm
George, just saw luciandgeorge.com for the first time and was so touched by her story and your dedication. Hang in there...you're well on your way!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:05 pm
Another strong finish.....you are the man! Everyone here keeps talking about how well your doing and asking each other for updates. We're all really proud of you bro!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:58 pm
You are everyone's STAR!!!No mother could be more proud of a son than I am of you. Your determination is amazing. As you can tell by the comments, we all wait anxiously for your blog. But now, baby, go to bed!!! Rock it again, tomorrow! God speed. Sending love always.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:56 pm
That's awesome George!!! Love the details in your blog. Feels like we're running along side of you. If you got this far you'll do just fine.
I'm a runner myself and my friend pointed me to this site. I just did a marathon this year and remembering how great it felt to have accomplished that . But to go through this experience and finish what your doing would be a great accomplishment. Enjoy the sights and when you get tired remember that we're all behind you. Even people you never met before.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:49 pm
Alicia: "GO GEORGE GO YOU CAN DO IT!' My mom is reading your blogs to me.
George, we are praying for you and your body to heal as you run!! Way to go! The Horvath's are blessed beyond compare and so are you!!! Many blessings!!!!
Kim Graham
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:41 pm
Wow. I don't know what is worse -- waiting for the daily updates or running 155 miles in the desert! Especially when you make these amazing feats sound so manageable. You're focus and determination is so inspiring. Keep on keeping on... ( oh and see if you can borrow some shades)
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:31 pm
I read today that Luci was the star of her class you are the star for the rest of us. You are pushing yourself to the ultimate limits, there are no words that can describe the inspiration you are. I am so proud of everything you are doing. Congrats on the strong finish for day 2!! I think merrill\'s productivity is at an all time low this week, we are all glued to the site and your blog!! Good luck tomorrrow be safe and stay hydrated!!xoxo
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:31 pm
George, you are insane. Seriously, insane. I love it! I am speechless and don't know what else to say. Everyone is pumped for you! Keep on grinding!!
25 October 2009 08:11 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
So insane that its almost sane...
8:00 am and the sun is roasting...we kick off in 60 mins. Talk about a crazy first 48 hours. But somehow...someway we made it to base camp last night at 1:00am. what we expected to be a routine eight hour drive into the desert ended up as a miserable yet unique 13 hour joyride. One of the buses broke down on the way to camp in the middle of nowhere so we were stuck on the side of the road in the unihabited desert for over four hours. want some early morning humor...try watching about 200 people including staff, volunteers and racers all exit the buses simultaneously and walk 30 yards to relieve themselves right next to one another (ladies included) without a care in the world. thats the level of comfort were all rapidly getting with one another. the tents are packed real tight and we got a few snoorers in there. christian got bit last night by something in the middle of the night and has a huge swollen lip but thats pretty much par for the course. there is also no anti-venom in the med stations so the only advice is dont get bit by something poisonous or thats pretty much ballgame. gotta say though, the white desert is one of the most beautiful places ive ever seen - pristine soft white sand, gorgeous rock formations and some massive dunes laying in the distancn the middle of the night the moonlight allowed you to see the shadow of some of these montster dunes and many were at least 20 stories tall. and the fellow competitors and staff are amazing. coolest thing about this race, you have about 25-30 elite runners who are going out to smoke it, about 50 like me who are new to the game but hoping to do well and then a bunch more who just love life, want to see the world and are here to finish it and have a kick ass time.
as for how im feeling...to be honest im scared out of my mind. but thats just pregame jitters. ive only slept two of the last six nigths because of major anxiety so im pretty tired but im healthy and not sick yet so theres no excuses. i avoided the mummy tummy (coolest name ever) in cairo and from what the expats say its a game ender for this type of race. we all know how difficult the challenge awaiting us is but everyones pumped that its finally here. No clue what to expect out there in another 45 mins but god willing i can finish strong and put up a decent number.
cant thank each of you enough for all the messages...the support is unreal. I know I havent been able to respond to everyones comments directly but ive read the blog several times and Im taking your stories with me. without them id be even more concerned than I am now.
ps - reimer I hear ND squeaked one out against BC. Guess after 6 consecutive losses you were due so congrats. Ill check in again today after the stage, my stretch goal is to complete it under four hours but 4:30 would be just fine with me. Slow, methodical stalking is the name of the game out here. alright gotta run...love you all...check in later.
Comments: Total (41) comments
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:10 pm
Chim! BE STRONG, STRONGEST MAN ALIVE! I thought the idea of you doing this was insane but the way you are dominating mentally and physically is more than anyone could ask for. Then again, what did people expect, its "YOU!"
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:18 pm
Accurate-Patriots beat Tampa Bay 35-7!!!
Mary said to ask you if you know what a buccaneer is?.... A good price for corn.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:04 pm
Awesome day 2! Go George! We are chanting as we get ready for Luci to be Star of the Week at school. We've got lots of picts of you and from our event Sat. and she's going to wear her T-shirt. She's so proud! You've given her the precious gift of confidence in who she is and knowing she is special, even though she's different. She doesn't grasp it all yet, being only 3, but it makes a huge difference and will stay with her. And she'll be the only 3 yr old in class talking about running through the desert to improve the lives of others! Forget birthday parties and trips to the zoo. It is so wonderful to share this experience with you. Can't wait to read your next blog! The picts of you from the race are great too. Hope your feet are holding up. Stay Strong, George! We are with you :)
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:58 pm
WOW! George you are doing fantastic!! Stay healthy...
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:56 pm
Cop: What's likely to happen if I arrest you for drunk driving?
Strawberry: I'll probably lose my buzz a lot faster.
--------
The stock market really plummeted today, but luckily there is a computer chip that is used to turn off the board if it gets too low. It is called the osterich warning.
-------
The Royals have the same chip in their score-board. ---
Well, at least the Cubs are trying. They installed a new pitching machine the other day. Unfortunately it beat them 4-1.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:51 pm
WE are so proud of you. Stay well. Keeep the pace. We love you.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:41 pm
Geo ~ Great job! What an experience . . . Uncle Bern's and my prayers are with you. Stay strong.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:40 pm
George, get job just got home and checked your stage 2 finishing time...you my friend are unreal. Luci continues to ask if she can see pictures of you in Egypt. She is the star of the week at school and she told Jolie she wants to bring a picture of you to class to tell them about your Quest. She actually calls it a quest!! Keep it up, we are all here for you...
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:36 pm
Jorge - You're the only American in the top ten. Amazing work!!! Can't wait to hear from you on the blog. How many toenails do you have left?
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:31 pm
Chmiel,
Keep it up man. Quite impressive results so far! First round's on me when you get back.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:24 pm
Way to go George!!! Thinking about you and keeping you in our prayers. I'm just thinking that I probably shouldn't have put that I am from Chicago with the horrible loss yesterday of the Bears and Bengals. 45 to 10, sad, very sad! Well I'm staying a fan and now I am your fan! Do you know the tune?? Go George Go, Go George Go, Hey MAGIC what do you say, George is already a winner today!!! Hang in there, we are with you in spirit!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:21 pm
Wow, well done G. Keep it up but beware, Hoogie (the dutchie) is just behind you and we keep on pressing him. If he overtakes, start shouting Hoogie, Hoogie! Not to worry though, he is a first-timer so hook on and the both of you just ride it out! :>) Verry impressive! Good luck!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:07 pm
OMG -- Just saw the stage 2 results, 6th place! You are amazing! Saw some of the comments from other competitors and sounds like a gruelling day! Hope you came through it OK. Can't wait to read your blog! Take care, and Go, George, Go!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 07:28 pm
Checking in on your progress. Love to hear u are well. Be well and don't get bit. Ok - I wouldn't know where to go for structured notes if anything were to happen to you !!!!! :-). Kgd
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 07:19 pm
I know you would want to know.........you surpassed $54,000 ($54,300)!!!!!!!!
You ARE the hero to thousands of kids! We love you George....keep safe!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 07:18 pm
We are rooting for you. This journey is amazing to me. Thank you, again, SO much for running for our kids!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 06:46 pm
You are doing so well!!! You’re our source of inspiration... I can't even say it enough!! Thank you a hundred times, you are incredible and show more strength and endurance than I can fathom! Hope you have an amazing time, come back safe! Think of Dori from Finding Nemo, and “just keep swimming!”
TY for keeping us posted... We are all pushing for you and sending all our positive thoughts!!!
Much Love!!!!!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 06:19 pm
You are doing great!! Remember slow and steady also wins the race. You are in my prayers, keep kickin ass!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 06:16 pm
I'm not getting any work done watching the updates all the time. I saw you in a few of the pictures...............you look well!!! Take care. You have a MAGIC army watching, praying and pulling for you all the way!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 05:50 pm
As usual, just leaving you a note - coming in 5th even after getting lost for 2.5 miles! WOW! Way to go!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 04:20 pm
George -- 5th place!!! So amazing! Plus you met your stretch time even while getting lost for 2.5 miles. These guys don't know what's coming.. Love the pictures! You're always rocking a big grin. Keep up the positive attitude -- the mind is stronger then the body. You continue to impress in that regard.
Good energy your direction...
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 03:20 pm
George, we are all cheering you on here at MAGIC and wishing you only the best! You are trully an inspiration to us all. Go George!!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:45 pm
GO GEORGE!!! Cant wait to hear about you day! Waiting paitiently, well trying too :) I sitll can't believe you are doing this, you are a HUGE inspiration in the challenge you are taking on and the fundraising efforts! xoxo
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:24 pm
Go George Go!! I have a 2 year old daughter with CAH (another illness that falls under the Magic Foundation). They are a wonderful foundation and have helped us a lot...you are our HERO for getting their information out there more!!
We are praying for you!! You can make it!! =)
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:58 pm
Stay strong buddy! We were loving following along yesterday, the pics, vids, blogs (all from the couch, hungover of course). The terrain is breathtaking, take it alllll in. Be safe, we're all rooting for you!!
Love,
Amanda
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:47 pm
Hello from ML in Greenwich!!! We are so amazed and impressed by your courage! Keep up your strength and have a safe race!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:43 pm
Hockey held up their end:
BC 3 ND 2 (pariculiarly sweet since ND just beat BU 3-0 on Tuesday)....Keep Drinking Water!!! BE Safe!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:14 pm
George - my prayers are with you during this amazing journey. Thank you so much for your support of MAGIC and putting yourself out there for these kids. You are truly an inspiration! Be safe, stay strong and know we are so incredibly in awe of you!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:14 pm
Keep it up George!!! Be careful!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:56 pm
George - You are an incredible man! My heart is 100 times bigger this morning reading your story. Thank you for supporting all the kids of Magic with this race! Be safe!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:26 pm
Great job so far! Amazing....you're out in the middle of the desert and know the results of the BC ND game! Seriously though, your drive and determination is inspiring.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:23 pm
you are an absolute hero! My 2 yr old daughter has RSS and we would be lost with Magic. Thank you so much, from the bottom of our hearts, for this valiant deed!
Do you feel like a knight in shining armor??you should!
Lots of love and best wishes to you. Here's to a speedy recovery for you feet!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:15 pm
George,
You are the man!
Good luck with the feet.
Best,
Josh
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:05 pm
Way to go bro!! And a great update of all the goings on leading up to the start. It must be so surreal running out there in the midst of that setting. Keep on your stride and you'll continue to kick and take names...G
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:41 am
What an inspiration you are George, we thank you from all the way down under...Perth, Western Australia. My son Gus has RSS, he is 4yrs old and we would have been lost without the Magic Foundation. We are all so blessed to have someone like you do something as incredible as this. Thank you and good luck for the rest of your amazing journey, we are all there with you! Sarah.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:04 am
George:
Please make sure no matter how tough it gets you enjoy the experience. What a thrill it must be to participate in such an event. I am 54 and have CAH so I will enjoy this with you.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:44 am
Way to go George! You did amazing!!! I'll be checking all day again and saying prayers for you as well.
Enjoy, take care and be safe!
Tamera
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 09:32 am
Thank you, George, for all you're doing! I'm so happy you made it through the first day okay, and I'm praying for you again today! My daughter has MAS/FD and MAGIC has been amazing to help our family! Thank you for helping raise awareness of many rare diseases and for helping all our children! God bless you, George! Hang in there and good luck with the rest of the race! Think of all the kids when the race gets hard, and let them give you strength!!! GO, GEORGE!!!! Tanya
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:51 am
What a great day you had in Stage 1 considering the navigational problems. Way to go, George! Up at 4am today, heading straight to the computer to check out the site. By now, you are well into Stage 2. Hope you got some sleep, and that your feet have gotten some well needed TLC. Wishing you an easy stride today -- just find your pace, and you'll do great. So proud -- you are amazing!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 08:07 am
You are an amazing man, George! Keep runnin!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 06:57 am
Thank you George!!!! I have a daughter who is now 21yrs old w/ RSS. You are an inspiration to our family! When she was little not much was known about RSS. We applaude what you are doing to bring awareness to these syndromes. We will keep you in our prayers and keep up on your journey. Good luck to you and we are cheering for your safe and glorious race!!! Irene
25 October 2009 08:10 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
Solid start...but shouldve been better
As Tiger Woods always says you cant win a major on the first day but you certainly can lose one. And it was very hot with the later start so i had to be careful. But all in all I felt really good, wanted to put up a good number and did exactly that. Finished #5 for the day but it clearly shouldve been better. Myself and three other runners behind me were extremely upset as we were pacing to come in below 3:30 but got lost the last two miles as there were no markers on the course (wind may have blown them away) and we were running out of water. Pretty scary. Ran back and forth back and forth looking for the finish and ended up running 2.5 miles longer than the actual length of the course. The good news is that I went out in 12th place and worked my way up the entire day. Top three guys absolutely smoked it and theyre most likely untouchable but who knows.
Smart move of the week - ditching four dinners, my pants, spare sox and other items to get my pack down to 19 pounds.
Amateur move of the week - not buying shoes big enough, my feet were banging the edges all day once they swelled and I already have two monster blisters on my left foot and lost one nail. One blister on my right foot.
Its going to be a very long week but so far so good. Off to get some rest and do it again! Thanks again for all the fantastic support...this is such a cool experience in such a beautiful and remote region. Hopefully can hold it together.
As Tiger Woods always says you cant win a major on the first day but you certainly can lose one. And it was very hot with the later start so i had to be careful. But all in all I felt really good, wanted to put up a good number and did exactly that. Finished #5 for the day but it clearly shouldve been better. Myself and three other runners behind me were extremely upset as we were pacing to come in below 3:30 but got lost the last two miles as there were no markers on the course (wind may have blown them away) and we were running out of water. Pretty scary. Ran back and forth back and forth looking for the finish and ended up running 2.5 miles longer than the actual length of the course. The good news is that I went out in 12th place and worked my way up the entire day. Top three guys absolutely smoked it and theyre most likely untouchable but who knows.
Smart move of the week - ditching four dinners, my pants, spare sox and other items to get my pack down to 19 pounds.
Amateur move of the week - not buying shoes big enough, my feet were banging the edges all day once they swelled and I already have two monster blisters on my left foot and lost one nail. One blister on my right foot.
Its going to be a very long week but so far so good. Off to get some rest and do it again! Thanks again for all the fantastic support...this is such a cool experience in such a beautiful and remote region. Hopefully can hold it together.
Comments: Total (29) comments
Posted On: 29 Oct 2009 08:13 pm
You are amazing!!! We are all cheering for you back on the desk!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 07:20 pm
Great job George! Keep up the good work. Team Silverman has a cold one ready for you when you get back!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 03:19 pm
I can't get any work done George! I sit by the computer and wait for updates! I jump out of bed in the A.M. to see all the updates!!! You have an army behind you pulling for you all the way....the MAGIC army!!! Keep well....
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:02 pm
What an awesome start!!!! So glad to hear from you, can't wait for the next update! You are an inspiration to all... Go get'em....
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:34 pm
Congratulations on a great first day!! You are amazing!!
Hey, tonails are over rated!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:04 pm
Incredible. Great start. I was fascinated by your day 1 blog. Wow, what an experience. How many people can say they got lost in the Sahara Desert? Keep the updates coming...this is a true reality show....riveting. Stay strong....you've got hundreds of people pulling for you.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 11:30 am
Way to Go George! I keep checking the computer to see how you're doing...it sounds like you had a great start! Stay strong...we're all rooting for you!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 03:19 am
Hello George- We were deeply touched by what you are doing as our daughter has a growth disorder. We want you know we are praying that God will give you the strength and protection you will need to run this amazing race.
Grace and Peace-
Tim, Tammy, Caitlyn and Emily Gerardi.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:33 am
Who said slow and steady wins the race? Awesome work!
BTW, took some scrolling but they got a Nice picture of you on the site. (between picture 49 -56 or so for those that want to look)
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:30 am
Megan and I were dining in boston tonight and wondering how you were doing...so glad to hear that you are 1 leg down and that your spirits are high! That\'s the Chmiel we know and love:) Something tells me you\'ll be catching up to those leaders!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:17 am
George,
Way to go on Day #1, bro! Fifth is pretty incredible, especially given the extra mileage you had to log just trying to stay on course...unbelievable.
We're sending a wave of Campman love and support from the States -- especially my girls!
KC
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 02:03 am
George! So glad to hear from you. We've been at the computer all day. Way to start off! You are amazing! Take care of yourself, because I know you want to get out there and kill it tomorrow. What an amazing experience you are having! Soak it up. Enjoy yourself. You have already made us all so proud. We love you.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:49 am
Fantastic start Georgie! Hang in there! Kristina has all of little girlfriends tracking this incredible feat you are doing!!! Watch out for the markers! I think the camels love to eat them!!! Love ya, your cuter cuz!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:42 am
AMAZING! I thought you would just be trying to finish but acutally coming in 5TH PLACE!!! Quite a feat! The first day is always going to be tough b/c you had no idea what to expect. Can't wait to hear how tomorrow goes!!!!!!!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:24 am
what a start! i'm sure this race determines the contenders from pretenders on day one. already, it is clear which camp youre in bro. keep it up, high knees!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:05 am
Jorge, you are the man! Getting lost and still being able to finish 5th is unreal! Dominating out of the gate. We all did a huge toast for you at 1am at Campbell's wedding to send you off. Everyone is so excited for you and is keeping up to speed with your race. Sorry to hear about the shoes. Find a nurse who "wants to touch your feet" and tell her to get in there.
Keep on living 'to the edge....and back.' I'm so damn proud of you bro!
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 12:24 am
You NEVER cease to amaze me! How people keep up with you is so beyond my comprehension....Way to run! Loved seeing the smile on your face! Watch your feet :-)
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 11:19 pm
Way to go on 1st day!! Hero status for lots of folks. Keep it up!!!! Sending all energy ur way. Kgd
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 11:06 pm
That a boy, way to start strong and wouldn't be the same if there wasn't a "story" to go along with your fist day! We are all pulling for you and I was a little "tight" prior to the start of the race...haha.. On the other hand, the "6 in a row" is no longer: ND 20 BC 16. Keep working hard and I know you will put up a better number tomorrow!!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 10:47 pm
great job, george...nice seeing your name at number 5 on the leaderboard...kimi and the kids are watching the site and pulling for you as well...travel safe...harry
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 10:30 pm
Awesome finish!!! I am so happy to hear that you are feeling good and that you didn't get lost. As for the water scare....YIKES!! Have a strong run tomorrow and no worries about the toe nail, bet you won't come back with any!!!! HEHE sorry trying to make a funny. You have 9 more no worries!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 10:28 pm
Awesome start! To quote you "always the hard way" but you managed to overcome a tough set back. Stay strong and be assured that in many ways you are already a winner.
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 10:10 pm
We were worrying about you all day long. Amazing 5th place finish. You must have been following your Whitney map when you got lost :) Don't forget if those blisters get really bad you still have the sandals and duck tape! Get some rest, dream of 80s hairbands, and kick some butt tomorrow!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 09:59 pm
Hi geroge, Mikes mom just wanted to say what a great job. Keep safe and well. Keep up the good work. GO GEORGE. LUCI grandmom mema and pop pop. thanks again.
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 09:58 pm
Congrats, baby! What an awesome start. Hope you didn't forget that blister kit? Sounds like it might be one of the most important things in your pack! Take care, sleep well, and we'll be following every step along with you again tomorrow! Love lots.
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 09:54 pm
Great start. Take care of yourself and keep it up!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 09:35 pm
Keep it up George!!
I hope that your feet don't give you problems during the next stages. I told my students about you today and they are all really excited to see how you do. If you get the chance tomorrow, tell a little bit about the White Desert; I hear that it's amazingly beautiful--especially the stars at night. Also, how are your freeze dried meals? Any mummy tummy yet?
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 09:27 pm
Yes sir, man I'm glad to hear from you. 5th that's huge!!! Your mom and I have been trading messages for 24 hours now...we were getting worried. There are some great pics of you on the website rocking the Magic shirt. Get some rest, everyone is pulling for you..As Luci said all day yesterday, "Go George!" Luci also wants to play with you when you get back state side.
YES SIR!!!!!!You the man!!!!!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 08:16 pm
Yeah bro!! Right...nothing simple like " keep the water on your left"...Stoked you had a good 1st day! Congrats on day 1 under the belt. Rest, hydrate and enjoy those packet meals...heh.
Keep on keeping on and have a great run again tomorrow! ....the whole crew..and more...are giving you constantt props..!
23 October 2009 07:56 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
Thanks everyone for the continued support. Just wanted to leave a quick post...alive and well in smoggy yet beautiful Cairo. Adrenaline's flowing...emotions are high. Everyone's so pumped for the race. More in-depth writeup coming later when I have time.
Comments: Total (34) comments
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 01:17 pm
George, your blogs are fascinating! Hang in there - we're all cheering for you.
Posted On: 27 Oct 2009 07:27 pm
George,
I just wanted to say that as the mother of 2 I would only pray that if I had a child with a disablitiy I would have the support that you have given your friends and the entire Magic Foundation.
Stay Strong and God Bless
Erin
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 07:30 pm
Good luck George! I am from Boston area as well & will be running the Sahara 2010 race. Hope you do well. I look forward to reading your blogs along the way. I hope to get some good info from you on what supplies you really need for this race. This is an incredible challenge you are taking on...I wish you well! I too am running for charity. I am raising money to provide scholarships for those with addiction & or mental health to obtain the treatment they need. Good Luck! I'm rooting for you! Patty from Beantown!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 07:20 pm
oops, also photo 16
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 07:10 pm
Photo # 22 is of George running in his Magic Foundation shirt! It's amazing to see how many of us are checking constantly for updates!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 04:32 pm
George,
What's going on, we need an update! Hope everything is going great. Luci is asking about you? She wants to go running with George!!!
Love,
Mike, Jolie, and Luci
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 02:44 pm
George,
I'm a MAGIC mom and wanted you to know I'm checking updates constantly. Stay safe. You're our hero!!!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 01:44 pm
I went for a run this morning, no where near the extreme conditions that you are facing, but I though about you the whole time. Waiting patiently for the updates. You are going to do great. Sending much love to Cairo!!!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 01:42 pm
Hang in there! You can do this!!!!! We are very proud of you!! Luv ya, Cuz from the cuter cuz!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 01:33 pm
Much Success! We all will be cheering you on here in Annapolis, Maryland and across the USA. Patty and Family
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 10:05 am
Have been up most of the night waiting for the next update. You're our hero! Go gettem!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 05:20 am
Rise and shine Chim. We're waiting to hear from you. Big day!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 04:00 am
You're our hero George! So excited to watch the updates. I hope you were not on the broken down bus! Good luck.
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 03:53 am
Run Forest Run!!! I just published your link on FB and attracted more attention for your cause.... Go and enjoy and don't get a blister - right!!!
Posted On: 25 Oct 2009 01:38 am
Hey George!
You are the first person quoted in the Pre-Race press...Going to blast it around the world! :-) It reads:
"PRE-RACE UPDATE 1700hrs 24-OCT-2009
You can go do some of the tourist stuff, maybe watch a couple of movies in your hotel room, or just catch up with friends, old and new. But no matter how hard you try to distract your mind, you’re never going to fully relax until you take that first step over the start line.
Even the most seasoned of 4 Deserts competitors can’t hide the nervous tension that builds in the days before the start of an event. It’s like winding up the rubber band motor on one of those toy planes. The faces around the Sahara Race 2009 competitor check-in area in Cairo’s Dusit Thani Hotel today might have been happy, but everyone entered for this epic 250km journey is clearly ready to launch. Some of the laughter that resonated around the hotel lobby had a distinctly nervy edge to it, but that’s understandable. Everyone here, from the first timers to the 4 Deserts veterans, is about to embark on a challenge that has probably dominated their thoughts and dreams for months.
“I’m a little excited and a little nervous,” confessed 28-year-old George Chmiel from Boston, USA. “I'm definitely going to be running. I'll feel my way through the first stage and then work out my pace going forward. I'm here to compete.”
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 10:59 pm
George - Go swiftly and safely. All of us on the 4th floor in Portsmouth are pulling for you!!! Kathryn
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 09:29 pm
From Higganum,CT...we love you George. I am so very impressed what you are doing for our little Luci.
Best of Luck. xoxoxoox
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 06:42 pm
It's GO TIME! Kill out there Chm...you're going to be great :) I can't wait to read the updates. My mom has the whole 6th grade plugged in and getting the updates every day.
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 04:27 pm
Chmiel,
You're the man! Best of luck to you. Everyone from NYC will be tracking the race throughout - We expect nothing less than a 1st place finish ... hah. Get 'em!
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 04:18 pm
George,
You did leave your white pullover at my place, as well as a t-shirt and pair of shorts. Oh well, your bag will weigh less now. I'll bring them to the finish line for ya! Good luck man
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 04:14 pm
Good luck tomorrow. You've trained your butt off for this - You can do it!
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 01:23 am
George! It must be so amazing to be there! Can't wait to hear more from you as the week goes on. We will be here following your every move, of course! Have a safe trip into the desert tomorrow as we are here celebrating the start of your race at our TX Quest for Luci event! (Got the banner btw. Thank you!) I'm sure your adrenaline will be pumping. Save it for the race! We love you!
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 12:37 am
George,
Rip it up brother!
You are the man, get it done!
Just remember, don't eat the sand.
Best,
Josh
Posted On: 24 Oct 2009 12:18 am
hi george! it's been a long time but jaime told me a few days ago about this and i'm not sure my message on the other site got to you before you left ... so i wanted to let you know that what you're doing is absolutely incredible and i'm following it every step of the way (along with hundreds of other people waiting anxiously for news of how you're doing!). luci is a lucky girl! you're in my thoughts and prayers. can't wait for your updates. be well. kate
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 11:05 pm
I will be following all the updates. Good luck George. All of MAGIC is pulling for you. You're a true winner to all the affected kids!!!
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 08:48 pm
George,
Absolutely inspiring
Be strong
Be safe
Excelling beyond excellence
All the way
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 07:53 pm
We are all routing for you!! Go get em'. You are so ready to tackle this "ish"!!! Good luck, drink lots of fluids and keep breathing. ; )
I will be waiting patiently for your first blog!!
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 07:34 pm
George, It's almost go time..Everyone here is excited for you and will be following your progress closely. We are with you
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 06:17 pm
George - I just learned today of this great challenge you are undertaking on behalf of a very worthy cause. You weren\'t kidding about going to Egypt ! I wish you unbridled success and know full well that you will successfully complete your mission. I, along with my wife and son Brian, whom you\'ve met before - will be following your progress. I hope to see you upon your return to Boston...
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 05:19 pm
I'm glued to your blog... good luck George! Go get'em.
You are ready and you can do this, can't wait to see your progress, we are all here routing for you!
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 05:16 pm
George -
We are thinking of you, and wishing you the best from Boston.
You've got alot of people rooting for you!!
J
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 05:15 pm
Watch your feet! Don't step on any desert flowers! Seriously! If you don't know about them- ask someone! :-)
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 03:23 pm
George...
Right on Brother!! Can't wait to hear more about your initial and ongoing impressions/expereinces.
Have a killer 1st day and alrerady looking forward to your updates...
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 03:16 pm
George - Best of luck in the race. Try to run with your mouth closed so you don't swallow too much sand. The entire team at Merrill Lynch is pulling for you and looking forward to your updates. Brian
19 October 2009 07:10 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
This will be my official race blog...starting Friday October 23rd no more blogs will be posted to the www.LuciAndGeorge.com website until I return home.
Comments: Total (20) comments
Posted On: 28 Oct 2009 11:59 am
We are all following your progress and thinking of you. Keep up the effort, you can do it, one mile at a time.
look forward to celebrating your success and journey when you are back.
Take care
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 10:52 pm
Hi geroge, I am glad you make other day. you are looking good. sorry to hear you are getting blusters. put keep thinking very body rooting for you and so is luci, mike and jolie. And i am praying very night. So try to stay safe ok. GO GEORGE. thank you . mikes mom
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 07:19 pm
Thinking of you and the amazing thing you are doing to benefit someone else. Drink lots of water...be safe
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 04:36 pm
When you get to close your eyes at night or need a different pretty view over the sunny days while running, think of the great ocean of the Red Sea close to you, where fishes and coralls accompany your daily race silently in fresh blue water, imagine the boats floating along the surface and think of the arabian nights close the pyramids, many years ago when adventure was ruling daily lives!
All the best and keep going!!
rita from Germany
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 03:38 pm
Hello there! What an experience! I'm glad to hear you're well. Stay focus and know your limit. We are all thinking of you.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 01:55 pm
Thanks George for what you are doing. It means so much to all of us. My daughter is 16 months old with Hypothyroidism, GHD, and Chiari Malformations 1. We appreciate that you are bringing attention and help to our kids. Im praying for you. God Bless you for your courage.
Posted On: 26 Oct 2009 03:51 am
What an amazing experience! Go George! Surfed the pics and found some good ones, thanks to the MAGIC shirt! 50, 72, 83, 93,170! Keep up the good work, Strike a Pose when you can! Hope your feet are better. Nancy (Mike and Jolie's friend)
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 07:37 pm
Hi george This is mikes mom again. Just wanted to thank you again for doing this for luci and the magic foundation. We wish you luck and our prayers with you and stay safe ok. Will be tracking you. GO George. Thank you . June and Steve. Luci grandsparents.
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 04:14 pm
George...It's been great to see your committment to the race and the cause grow over the past year or so...absolutely awesome! Have an amazing 1st day and I look forward to your updates!
Good on ya bro!!
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 03:00 pm
Hi Buddy!! I am thinking of you!! You have a LOT of good karma being sent your way. When it gets tough just remember all the lives you have touched and the ones who will change because of your hard work and dedication. Be SAFE.
Lots and lots of love,
Amanda
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 11:54 am
George,
Thank you so much for enduring this incredible feat for Luci and the Magic Foundation. You are an amazing person and my husband Roger and I hope to meet you someday-we are Luci's grandparents.
Good luck and we'll be cheering for you every mile of the way!
Posted On: 23 Oct 2009 12:10 am
Keep safe George - we are all very much in awe of what you do for our kids.
Posted On: 22 Oct 2009 08:40 pm
Good Luck George! All of us at MAGIC will be thinking of you daily and look forward to tracking your progress and reading your blogs! Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude for your endless devotion to the Horvath's, MAGIC and your journey thru the Sahara. You are an amazing person and we wish you nothing but the best of luck! WE LOVE YOU!
Posted On: 22 Oct 2009 07:04 pm
Good luck George! I am from Boston area as well & will be running the Sahara 2010 race. Hope you do well. I look forward to reading your blogs along the way. I hope to get some good info from you on what supplies you really need for this race. This is an incredible challenge you are taking on...I wish you well!
Patty from Beantown!
Posted On: 22 Oct 2009 01:05 am
George,
Good luck dude, we are rooting for you!
Best,
Josh
Posted On: 21 Oct 2009 06:27 pm
George,
Wonderful job! Your work here is an 'Absolute Good!' and it will carry you to great results.
Do your best! Everyone's rooting for you.
SDA
Posted On: 21 Oct 2009 05:31 pm
Go, George, Go!!!! My son is GH deficient and has serious blood sugar problems. He also has RSS (I started the original support group for RSS, then MAGIC came along - double entendre there!). You are an amazing person.
I'm a special ed teacher. My students and I will be tracking your progress as you run. They know all about you and are as excited as I am. Best of luck and know there are many MAGIC stars behind you.
Posted On: 21 Oct 2009 05:10 pm
George,
I am so very impressed! What a wonderful experience! We are all cheering for you! Enjoy the adventure...!!
Posted On: 21 Oct 2009 04:58 pm
George,
You are seriously amazing! ! I hope you know that. Give 'em hell! And keep on moving...
I'll be sending you some good vibes all week long.
Posted On: 20 Oct 2009 02:44 am
Hey,
I am actually taking a direct flight from JFK to Cairo on Wednesday night and since I'm pretty sure that there is only one I'll be seeing you there!
-Kris
24 June 2009 08:59 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)
So here we go. No turning back. No excuses. This post will be the first of many over the next five months in hopes of documenting what I expect to be the most fullfilling, and hands down the most challenging, experience of my life.
I started running about two years ago as a sort of personal vendetta against a reconstructed wrist...and the more I've pushed the envelope...the more I've grown to love the battle. There's something to be said for that moment in time when it's you vs. yourself and the pain is so severe that every inch of your being is telling you to stop. Yet you somehow find a way to shrug it off...to keep driving forward...and to ultimately reach a higher level. Think that's what brings so many back for more despite the self-induced suffering.
I consider myself extremely blessed to have this opportunity at this stage in my life. I look forward to meeting and builiding long-term relationships with a myriad of competitors from different countries and different cultures. Look forward to running in a landscape so beautiful and so arid and so rich in history that I couldn't possibly do it justice right now. Look forward to competing on behalf of a beautiful little girl (Luciana) with a very tough condition and for her two parents who've been nothing but amazing to me over the years. Look forward to pushing my mind, body and soul to their absolute edge to eliminate any current self-imposed boundaries. And I really look forward to playing the underdog and surprising the hell out of some of the more experienced runners.
So that's it for now. After recently completing the Providence marathon I've taken a few weeks for myself to focus on friends, family and work. But now...it's back to business. Another update in a few weeks...
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take ranks with the poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory or defeat." -Teddy Roosevelt
I started running about two years ago as a sort of personal vendetta against a reconstructed wrist...and the more I've pushed the envelope...the more I've grown to love the battle. There's something to be said for that moment in time when it's you vs. yourself and the pain is so severe that every inch of your being is telling you to stop. Yet you somehow find a way to shrug it off...to keep driving forward...and to ultimately reach a higher level. Think that's what brings so many back for more despite the self-induced suffering.
I consider myself extremely blessed to have this opportunity at this stage in my life. I look forward to meeting and builiding long-term relationships with a myriad of competitors from different countries and different cultures. Look forward to running in a landscape so beautiful and so arid and so rich in history that I couldn't possibly do it justice right now. Look forward to competing on behalf of a beautiful little girl (Luciana) with a very tough condition and for her two parents who've been nothing but amazing to me over the years. Look forward to pushing my mind, body and soul to their absolute edge to eliminate any current self-imposed boundaries. And I really look forward to playing the underdog and surprising the hell out of some of the more experienced runners.
So that's it for now. After recently completing the Providence marathon I've taken a few weeks for myself to focus on friends, family and work. But now...it's back to business. Another update in a few weeks...
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take ranks with the poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory or defeat." -Teddy Roosevelt
Comments: Total (6) comments
Posted On: 02 Oct 2009 02:27 pm
Thanks Mehmet...look forward to meeting as well. See you in a few weeks.
Posted On: 23 Sep 2009 12:26 pm
Bravo George,
All the best to you.
I am very moved by your cause.
I hope to see you in person at the race and at the finish line. Cheers. 4 weeks to go!!
Train hard!!
Posted On: 26 Jun 2009 03:51 am
Good luck, George, I am planning to participate as well. I did the Boston Marathon a few times many years ago! Mary
Posted On: 22 Jun 2009 02:03 pm
Dino - No training plan as of yet, just been pounding the pavement. But I should have a firm one later this week and I'd be happy to share thoughts with you.
Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 07:37 pm
Hi George
Wondering if you would share a generic training plan for Sahara . . . I'm in pretty good shape, but I know I've got some catching up to do.
Thanks and good luck in the race!
Dino
Posted On: 11 Jun 2009 06:27 pm
Nothin' but faith in you man!
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