Nick Benes / Norfolk Daily News
Megan Erickson spotted another runner wobble, then fall onto the grass Thursday during the final stretch of a cross-country race.
The 18-year-old Erickson had promised herself that if a competitor needed help, she’d lend a hand.
Erickson did not waver.
“We’re going to finish,” she told the fallen runner.
Goodnews: 'We're going to finish': Runner helps fallen competitor cross finish line during high school meet
When these runners are this close to the end and still see each other, they were probably seeing each other through most of the race where the camaraderie developed regardless of their teams.
Erickson knew she would likely be disqualified as would her down competitor but her need for sportsmanship was larger than the rule prohibiting help for a runner at any time. They're not even from the same teams and the need for finishing becomes the most important part of their race. If they do it together and lose, at least they would still finish the race.
In a loose way, this somewhat resembles part of the racing careers for Doc and I. We sometimes raced in California enduros. Since there was only one kart for the boys, that meant we would share it. The enduro ran for an hour and that wasn't enough to require a pit stop so we knew before starting the motor we would not win. I don't recall that ever being a concern with either of us because ...
Zen Yogi: the most important thing is to finish?
Absolutely, Yogi.
Unknown what is to become of the down partner but Megan Erickson is developing into a loving and generous woman. It seems highly likely she is and will be a lovely person to know.
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