This past weekend our team went to Michigan Intercollegiates. The format had changed this year, as normally it was a 4k race, with an 8k open race, but this year there was only an 8k race. I enjoy racing at Intercollegiates because it is just that...a race where you get to see where you stack up against DI, NAIA, and DII schools. Although powerhouses like Michigan and MSU do not come, there is still pretty good competition with perennial DII powerhouses GVSU, EMU, and Wayne State University. However, instead of racing, I went just to watch and cheer on my teammates. It changes your perspective quite a bit when you are used to always being the one racing...you start to wonder where you would have been in the race and as the race goes on, the itch to jump in the race grips you. Also, as a fan you can feel like you have such little impact on the runners, but afterwards I was told by a teammate that he was encouraged whenever he passed me.

Sunday was the Chicago Marathon. Part of the team goes down each year to cheer on people we know, which is usually at least a couple coaches and alumni. This year was no different and it is one way that we as athletes can show our appreciation for all that they have done for us.

Monday and Tuesday I had several tests. One of them was a CPR test which included pieces on rescuing babies and adults, and unconscious and conscious choking. I can say I passed with flying colors although who knows what will actually happen in a real-life situation. I heard one news story where someone was choking in a restaurant and nobody was helping the person or calling 911 (which you are supposed to do immediately if someone is choking and they are getting NO oxygen). Professional football player Tony Gonzalez was the only one who reacted, who promptly walked over and gave the person the Heimlich maneuver. The thing is, with both CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, one has to be pretty forceful (and do it in the right location) to be of benefit. So since I haven't actually saved someone's life yet, I'm not exactly sure just how forceful I have to be.