Wolves (left to right) Allie Powers, Hank Milnes, and Cael Wilson spent their weekend running from one country to another. (Photo courtesy Kelly Powers)
It’s 200 miles, two countries (or close to it), and a million memories.
Three young Coupeville athletes joined up with a pack of Wolf Moms (and dads) to complete this weekend’s Ragnar Road Northwest Passage running event.
High school aces Cael Wilson and Hank Milnes were joined by middle schooler Allie Powers, fresh off a run to the state tourney with her Central Whidbey Little League softball squad.
The trio all put in more than their fair share of the miles, with Milnes topping the team at 24.2 miles as the event played out Friday and Saturday.
Wilson, who was a last-second addition to the team, piled up 19.2 miles on the backroads of America, while Powers finished with 18.3 miles.
The CMS cross country supernova barely made the cut for Ragnar, competing as a 12-year-old, which is the minimum age for runners.
“I just was so impressed with these kids this weekend!” said team captain Kelly Powers.
“They all just showed real persistence and dedication making things happen.
“Each had their own struggles or setbacks but never gave up.”
The parents are ready to rumble. (Photo courtesy Helene Lhamon)
The young trio were joined by vets Helene Lhamon, Claire Milnes, Stephen Smith, Lark Gustafson, Kelly Powers, Stig Carlson, Scott Milnes, James Kunz, and Rebecca Albright.
Ragnar is a true team event, with runners alternating legs over the course of the race, which starts in Blaine and ends at the southern tip of Whidbey Island in Clinton.
“No land speed records were broken, but friends were made, tacos devoured and unforgettable moments of perseverance abounded,” Kelly Powers said.
As the hours (and miles) tick away, individual runners merge into a unique group.
“It’s odd, putting six random people in a van turns them into a team,” Kelly Powers said.
“A camaraderie formed, and they figured out how to support each other through challenges of heat, cold, dehydration, cramps, low blood sugar and ultimately the management of all the snacks!
“No one was left out or behind … especially as we moved from checkpoint to checkpoint.”
The team started in the heat of the day Friday, took a brief pit stop in La Conner, ran through the night and into sunset.
Picking back up Saturday after a brief siesta, it was on to Whidbey, wrapping things up in late afternoon.
Now, it’s time to ice any balky legs and look towards a reunion.
“We all can’t wait for next year!” Kelly Powers said.
The power of the shoe compels you. (Photo courtesy Helene Lhamon)
Coupeville Sports 