50 for Billy

#21: Los Angeles Marathon, California

2012-02-20T19:30:00.001-08:00

I'll be running the LA Marathon next with some great friends during my spring break. My friend Stephanie and her mom will be celebrating as her mom finishes state #50 in LA and they become the first mother-daughter team to finish the states together! I watched Stephanie finish state #50 in Boston last year. I am very excited for them!

#20: Alabama, First Light Marathon

2011-12-07T13:12:00.001-08:00

I made it! I will update you all soon! Thanks for your continued support!

#19: Mississippi Blues Marathon

2011-12-07T13:10:00.000-08:00

I will be running my third double marathon weekend in January in Mississippi and Alabama...it should be a great way to kick off 2012!

#18: Tennessee, St. Jude Marathon

2011-11-03T09:40:00.001-07:00

This was my last full marathon of 2011 and a good way to finish the year. As you all know I've started this journey to raise awareness and support for The Center for Grieving Children in Portland, Maine. I went there after my dad suddenly passed away in 2006. The Center was very helpful and welcoming to me and its services are free for people of all ages.

The St. Jude Marathon went through the St. Jude Children's Hospital and was very emotional/inspirational. There were many posters, pictures of patients, and inspiring quotations along the course.

My goal at the beginning of 2011 was to run one marathon each month. It's hard to believe that I ran 16 full marathons and my first 50k this year. I also ran a few 10ks, 5ks, and half marathons and of course rocked The New Balance Reach the Beach Relay twice. It was a great year of running and I am thankful for all of the friends I have made along the way. Thank you everyone for all of your support. I am looking forward to all of the miles that 2012 brings and all of the new and continued friendships. Next up is the Mississippi Blues/First Light double in Miss and Alabama. Happy Running and Happy Holidays!!

St. Jude Children's Hospital

ELVIS!

Congratulations to Maricar on completing her 50 state challenge! It was an honor to be there with you for it!

At the expo.

Beale St.

Hal Higdon signed my bib!

Yes!!! I found a lobster!!

#17: Oklahoma, Route 66 Marathon

2011-11-03T09:39:00.001-07:00

The 2011 Route 66 Marathon in Tulsa was a special one because we had our own VIP Tent for 50 Staters and Marathon Maniacs and special engraved medals! A special thanks to Annette and Guy for their support and sharing most of the miles with me. It was a brutal course--freezing, windy, and hilly! The sun never came out and the temperature dropped throughout the race. So glad to have this one behind me!

Team Ultra Blanton and I

Danielle and I

Pre-race dinner

With the Lululemon Tulsa girls

We did it!!

Rockin out the course

At The Center of The Universe

Gettin my kicks on Route 66!

I found Thunder!!

Annette, Guy, and I

Yes, I took the .3 mile detour for this medallion and a beer!

Don and I

We had a little too much fun with the photo booth at the expo.

My bib # signed by Marathon Maniacs 1, 2, and 3!

#16: Nevada, Hoover Dam Marathon

2011-10-18T09:29:00.001-07:00

Pictures do not do justice of how beautiful Lake Mead/Hoover Dam really is.

This was a beautiful one. It was definitely challenging in the heat, but well worth the view on the course. Joyce, the race director puts on a great marathon with plenty of support along the course. This is a must do if you are looking to run a marathon in Nevada. I stayed on the strip and a bus picked up the runners along the strip. I brought sweet sixteen in with many new friends. I ran with one woman from Arizona who gave me her breast cancer bracelet at the end of the marathon. This marathon at some points made me want to cry because I felt like my dad was with me enjoying the scenery in the canyons and tunnels at Hoover Dam. My friend Kayla came with me and we enjoyed Halloween in Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon...it was a great trip!!

Pre-race hydration bellinis!

Martha and I

Lake Mead

At the Grand Canyon.

Post-marathon...ready for some 80's Halloween Vegas action!

Mile 20 is always a happy sign.

The breast cancer bracelet a runner gave me. I ran the last few miles with her. She was getting very dizzy running through the tunnels (see below).

Halloween in Vegas...80's style!

#15: Rhode Island, Amica Marathon

2011-10-10T16:53:00.003-07:00

Well I survived my second double marathon weekend. It was great meeting new 50 Staters and Marathon Maniacs. I helped a first timer into the finish again which made this double marathon weekend a success and worth it. Another 52.4 miles is in the books!!

Melissa and I at the start.

Let's do this!!!

Marathon Maniacs/50 Staters on the beach in Newport before the marathon. The sky was amazing!


And my dad was with me here along the ocean!

The gang! Check out the sky...beautiful!

Very peaceful course along the ocean...my kind of run


John and I


Alicia and I

two states. two days. 52.4 miles. i might not run as fast as a kenyan, but i have a heart of a kenyan.

#14: Connecticut, Hartford Marathon

2011-10-10T16:53:00.001-07:00

At the start of my second double marathon weekend...EPIC!

Dave is FAMOUS!!

This was my second double marathon weekend. After my first double in April, I had sworn I would not do it again. It actually is a ton of fun and completely manageable to run a double. I had a great time with a lot of wonderful people/runners. I met Elisabeth, a first time marathoner early in the marathon and we worked together to finish the marathon. It's always fun running with a first timer and finishing together!

Candid "point at something" 50 stater/MM pic.

We did it!! Onto marathon #2 of the weekend in Rhode Island!

MM's and 50 staters at the start of the 2011 ING Hartford Marathon.

At the expo with some great 50 stater/MM friends!

Elisabeth and I getting closer to mile 20

Pre-race dinner

Downtown Hartford

We met Kathy from the Hood to Coast movie and her husband, they are from Portland, Oregon.

State #13: Minnesota, Twin Cities Marathon 10/2/11

2011-09-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Every marathon has been special to me for its own reasons. This marathon reminded me how much I love traveling and exploring new places. It also reminded me that I am never alone wherever I travel. I have been thankful to meet several Marathon Maniacs and 50 State Club members with inspirational stories and reasons why they run.

This was my first trip to Minnesota and I loved it. The people were all so friendly and the crowd support was amazing. Every mile had energy and plenty of spectators along the course. It is rated the Most Beautiful Urban Marathon and I'd have to agree. The Twin Cities are absolutely beautiful.

I ran with two girls that were also both 25 years old that lost their dads. We all finished together. On my flight home, I sat next to Kirui Kipyegon from Kenya...he runs 2:14 marathons and won the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2010. He was awesome to talk with!

My dad's running days!

2011-08-15T17:40:00.001-07:00

GO BILLY-T!

State #12: Idaho, Pocatello Marathon

2011-07-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend marked 5 years since my dad has passed away. I decided it would be liberating to travel all the way to Idaho for a marathon.Wow, what a trip....I went from Boston to Dallas to Salt Lake City then took a shuttle to Pocatello. It took about 11 hours to get to Idaho from Boston. I met some great MM's (Marathon Maniacs) in Idaho and went to the 50 Marathon State Club meeting. This was the smallest/countryside marathon I have ever ran. The water stops were great, several Idaho State University students were volunteering. The course didn't need spectators though because the scenery was beautiful and the cows, sheep, and horses provided enough cheering.

baby goats at the race start!

Myself, Cyndie, and Liz

Got potatoes?

These guys were at the starting line!

BAHHH!!

Russ and I...We ran together the whole time. Russ lost his father at age 24.

Kathy, Lianne, and I (50 Staters)

Sunflower Mile

My first 50K (31.05 miles): Great Cranberry Island Ultra Marathon, 7/16/11

2011-06-21T18:42:00.001-07:00

This was my most challenging race ever. The course goes out and back on the same road 8 times. There were lots of Marathon Maniacs and Crows which made the race fun. Steph and I set up water balloons, super soakers, Twister, sidewalk chalk, a slip n slide prior to the race to add some fun. I had already completed a marathon in Maine (Mount Desert Island Marathon), but of course I didn't want to miss a chance to run this one, it has was on my bucket list! I think I'd rather bike it next year though and provide goodies to the runners. It was a very hot day and I am not a big fan of the out and back courses, but that being said the support from the race directors, community members, spectators, volunteers, and runners was amazing. It felt like we were at a block party! And the lobster, beer, and MEDALS were totally worth it! The support was amazing throughout the whole event which definitely helped me stick it out each lap. It took me about two hours longer than I had anticipated, but I had fun and that's always my #1 goal.

We came to party!

I decided to go down the slip n slide every time that I saw it. I am now regretting this decision as my feet are all blistered from running in soaking wet shoes!

Marathon Maniacs do a jump in front of the "Marathon Maniac Frat House"!

The classic start.

All of the runners had their names on telephone polls and there were many quotations too!

I successfully made it down the slip n slide again!

MM's in front of our rental house on GCI

Gary Allen, race director, giving us the final race instructions!

Marathon Maniacs! Maniac Invasion on the island!

Divas.

Sweet medals!

Leah, the female winner cruising along in my pink tutu...maybe it will have good luck now!

The first annual Marathon Maniac tutu relay was held at GCI.

The quotations along the course were fun to read while struggling!

#11: Seattle Rock n Roll Marathon

2011-05-31T14:46:00.001-07:00

Peaches, Amanda, and I

I finished #11 in style with my friend Amanda and her friend Peaches. This was Amanda's first marathon and she ran in memory of her dad. She lost her dad suddenly in 2008. We rocked the marathon with tutus :) There were tons of marathon maniacs out on the course. Seattle was hilly....lots of bridges and tunnels...it was fun screaming through the tunnels, but the bridges weren't so friendly.

Don and I

Marathon Maniacs group pic


Peaches and I rockin the tutus

A trip to Seattle isn't complete without a trip to the top of the Needle!

View of Seattle from the Needle

Ballerinas can run too!

#10: Vermont, Key Bank Vermont City Marathon

2011-05-09T09:22:00.001-07:00

At the rainy start of the VT City Marathon!

The Vermont City Marathon course was beautiful despite the pouring rain, sun, and crazy humidity.


Marathon Maniacs at VT City Marathon 2011

While running, I met Don Kern, the race director of the Grand Rapids Marathon in Michigan. He told me he ran the Mount Desert Island Marathon its first year! I plan on running Grand Rapids with my friend Nicole, another 50 stater.

Around mile 16, I met Kelly, a Biology graduate student from Dartmouth College. We had a great conversation and continued running together to the finish. She PR'd by a minute!!

The trip wouldn't have been complete without a visit to Ben & Jerry's...

Sea Dogs Mother's Day 5K with The Center for Grieving Children

2011-05-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

Thank you Team 50 for Billy for coming out yesterday to benefit The Center for Grieving Children in Portland, Maine on Mother's Day and running the Sea Dogs 5K. It's always a great course and fun family event...especially fun since the finish goes around the baseball field! It was fun to meet and see all of you there!

Suzanne (old xc/track coach), myself, and Jen!

Jonathan, Nichole, and I

Heather and I :)

Chelsea and Ashley

State #9: Ohio, Flying Pig Marathon

2011-04-22T17:31:00.003-07:00

I ran the Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinnati on 5/1/11, the day after the Kentucky Derby Marathon. I wasn't too nervous at the beginning of the Flying Pig because of the great company I had!! Stephanie Arango who recently completed her 50th state in Boston this year hosted me for the marathon. It was so much fun to see her and her mom again and to meet her boyfriend and friends! Thank you Stephanie for convincing me that I could complete a double marathon weekend and still have a fun time!! Stephanie's mom, Mary and I finished the Pig together! It was our first double! A big shout out to her boyfriend Justin who finished his first marathon at the Pig!

The night before the Pig, Stephanie organized a dinner in downtown Cincinnati at the Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery at Fountain Square. It was a fun dinner and I had the chance to meet other Marathon Maniacs and share my story!

Marathon Maniacs at dinner

Mary and I

Marathon Maniac Divas

Cincinnati skyline shot...myself, Juli, Mary, and Dave!

52.4 miles. 2 in 2 days.

52.4 miles in 2 days...did it hurt?? Well, my legs weren't as sore as my feet were and I took both marathons very slowly. I had so much fun during both of them. It's all about the fun for me because that's the way my dad was. There wouldn't be much of a point in running 50 states if I wasn't having fun and enjoying it all along the way.

Earning 2 medals in 2 days made me a bit emotional. It made me think of my dad and everyone who has had to go through the grieving process. Running has been my outlet. It has made me the person that I am today and it has introduced me to great people and has also allowed me to reconnect with old friends. I am so thankful that I was able to experience this double marathon weekend and I plan on doing a few more doubles throughout my 50 state quest!

I was able to share my story with many runners throughout the weekend and hopefully inspired many along the way. I hope my 50 state quest informs and inspires other people to take a proactive approach to losing a loved one. I can't thank the Center for Grieving Children in Portland, Maine enough for being one of many places where I could go for a piece of mind and to talk to others going through the same pain and grief. Thank you everyone for continuing to follow and support my journey!

State #8: Kentucky, Kentucky Derby Marathon

2011-04-22T17:31:00.001-07:00

I ran the Kentucky Derby Marathon on 4/30/11 in Louisville. I stayed with my good friend Lauren from college who I did track with. She has the most adorable little son named Cal. He's such a cute and sweet little boy!

Lauren & I at the marathon expo

I drove to the marathon start with Lauren's sister, Alden and her friend Abbie...they were both running their first 1/2 marathon!

Myself, Alden, and Abbie

After I wished Alden and Abbie good luck, I started to head over to the start and for the Marathon Maniac group photo. I met a lot of other great runners/people!

Marathon Maniacs group photo

It was in the 80s during the race and the course was pretty hilly. I wasn't feeling so well around mile 10 and became sick. I don't know if I was dehydrated or what was going on, but I told myself that I had already made it 10 miles so I could suck it up and make it another 16. Sure enough, I did and I am glad I did. I met Annette Blanton and Dave Mari (both Marathon Maniacs) during the marathon.


Annette and I in front of a random horse sculpture :)

Bill and I!

This was Bill's something 80th marathon...he's on his second tour of the 50 states. AMAZING! He definitely helped me get through this one...especially that huge hill at mile 23! It's always a pleasure to find Bill at marathons. He's full of good humor!

The Kentucky Derby Marathon was #8 and the beginning of my first ever double marathon weekend!

State # 7: Utah, Salt Lake City Marathon

2011-03-22T08:12:00.001-07:00

I flew into Salt Lake City the day before the marathon with my mom and we walked around the city....went to Temple Square and the expo to get my bib #.

I finally met Cheryl from RazzyRoo Headbands. She is a sweetheart and her headbands are soo adorable and awesome for running!

Temple Square in Salt Lake was beautiful.

My mom and I went up to the 26th floor observatory of the LDS Office Building. It was beautiful to see the entire Salt Lake City Valley.

On the morning of the race it was raining and it was pretty cold at the Olympic Legacy Bridge (Univ of Utah) where the starting line was. I met a bunch of marathon maniacs at the start which was awesome because it was my first marathon as an official maniac!

Doug and I

The course was beautiful because of the mountains. I could definitely feel the change in elevation. I met a man named Doug around mile 11 and stayed with him for the rest of the marathon. Doug was from Cottonwood Heights, outside of Salt Lake. He began running at age 59 and ran his 1st marathon only two years ago. He started running because his daughter told him he couldn't run a mile. He ran eight blocks one day and then decided to run a marathon! Doug was diabetic and took his blood sugar while running. I gave him a lot of credit for being able to run marathons even with such low energy. I finished with Doug and he thanked me at the end for staying with him. He PR'd by 25 minutes. Salt Lake City was his second marathon. Once I started to run with Doug, I knew I was going to stay with him. I helped him finish at his desired goal time and he cut off 25 minutes from his first marathon time! A definite success.

Before Mile 20, there was a "Temptation Station" with shots! I didn't take any, but it was pretty amazing. Some residents set up tables with shots of whiskey and blasted music....and they even kept a "Tempted Tally."


The "Temptation Station"

After the marathon, my mom and I went out to lunch with my college xc & track friend, Sarah for lunch! It was so awesome to see Sarah out at mile 14 and then at the end of the marathon. Sarah lives in Cottonwood Heights now. It was really nice to catch up after a couple of years.


Sarah and I

Later that night, my mom and I met up with Nicole and Jeff from Wisconsin. Nicole is also aiming to run 50 marathon in 50 states. We went to a bar called the Tavernacle (making fun of the Tabernacle) Social Club. It was a fun time, minus the fact that the beer was only 3.2% because of Utah liquor laws.

Nicole, Jeff, and I

State #6: Virginia, Shamrock Marathon

2011-03-19T14:12:00.001-07:00

The night before I left for Virginia, a college track friend (Kasey) texted me "I'm going to Virginia too..." we then realized we were on the same flight. We had a fun layover and drank a couple green beers together! The last time we saw each other was around 2006, we were SO excited!!


Kasey and I on the plane!

I quickly settled into the Holiday Inn Oceanside on 21st Street and Atlantic Avenue...then I did a phone interview with Suzanne at WBZ Radio in Boston about 50 for Billy.

I was able to do some exploring on Virginia Beach the day before the race, but not a whole lot because I had to write a memorandum for class. However, I did take a break to have lunch with Charlene (@OneFootThere) from Philly. I briefly met Charlene at the Philly Marathon in 2010. She ran the 1/2 at VA Beach this past weekend and will be running the Marine Corp Marathon!


Charlene and I.

After lunch, I walked the Boardwalk and checked out the finish line. It was beautiful outside and the weather was perfect for running (50s and cool along the ocean). I love running near the ocean! The night before the marathon there was a beautiful full moon right over the ocean. Its reflection made the water sparkle. I sat on my hotel room balcony and smiled. I felt like my dad was sitting right next to me and we were sharing a laugh. So far throughout this whole journey, I have felt like my dad hasn't been gone. It feels like I am sharing all of these miles with him.

On the morning of the race, I opened the glass door to the balcony and saw lots of 1/2 marathoners heading to the start area. I could also see the finish area from my balcony which made me even more excited.


Virginia Beach Boardwalk & Shamrock Marathon finisher's tent

I woke up to a beautiful sun rise. Dad was with me. He wouldn't leave his little Bethy behind.

It was so windy at the start line on Atlantic Avenue! I joined a bunch of other marathoners in a garage to stay warm. I met Pam from New Orleans, who is a 50 stater. Shamrock was #29 for her and she was aiming for 3:30. She was very friendly and hopefully our paths will cross again. The race was delayed 15 minutes and at first people were a bit disappointed, but I think it was a good thing. I am not sure that I would have met Pam or had the opportunity to bond with a bunch of other runners in a small little garage area of a random building.

And then we were off!! I met Jamie from North Carolina at mile 1 and ran with her until mile 23. She had a shirt on that said "every step is for Ben." I asked her about her shirt and she said Ben was one of her preschool students who was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. She was running for him and raised $1,800! Ben was at the finish line with his family waiting for Jamie. It was Jamie's first marathon and I have a good feeling she will do many more. We had a lot of fun during the marathon, we took lots of pictures, had our picture taken with Army boys, danced to "Gettin' Jiggy Wit It", sang songs, and laughed a lot.


The Army boys and gals at Camp Pendleton.

Right before the 1/2, a runner said to me, "Hey weren't you just at Myrtle Beach for the marathon?" and then I made the connection...It was Bill, a 50 stater I had met at the starting line at Myrtle Beach. I ran with him for a while, it was so awesome to talk to him about different marathons. Shamrock was #78 for him. He is going to do the 50 again. I told him his quote "Pain is expected, injury is optional" made my blog and of course he gave me about 3 more quotes, but I can't seem to remember them! He told me he is running the Kentucky Derby Marathon too so I will be seeing him there! I am sure he'll have some quotes for me then!

Bill, me, and Jamie.

At mile 20, there was a black and white lighthouse near Fort Story. I had never seen one like this before!

I took off at mile 23, my legs felt good and I was ready to check VA off the list. I didn't even realize until I made it home that the Shamrock Marathon made me a Marathon Maniac! I am now #3632!

#6 completed!


The after party!

PROGRESS!!!

Thank you to everyone for all of your support. I am having a lot of fun with this journey and I know there will be many more awesome memories. I am off to Salt Lake City next for the SLC Marathon. My mom is coming with me since she is on April vacation (she's a teacher). I can't wait! :) Please support me by making a donation to the Center for Grieving Children. Every bit helps, even if it's $1, $5, $10. Donate here!
All of the proceeds go directly to the Center which is a non-profit driven by volunteers. I went to the Center when I lost my dad suddenly in '06. They offer free support groups to people of all ages. Check out their newsletter with a feature on "50 for Billy." Center for Grieving Children Spring 2011 Newsletter

State #5: South Carolina, Myrtle Beach Marathon

2011-02-15T15:19:00.000-08:00

I ran the Myrtle Beach Marathon this past weekend and the weather was beautiful! It was 55 degrees at the start. When I arrived, I took a taxi to my hotel and the driver was hilarious. He had such a deep southern accent and had so much to talk to me about. I listened a lot. He was talking about high taxes, Harley Davidson bike week, and retired folks.

My Berwick, Maine buddy and I.

I went to the marathon expo that night and met Logan Hejl who is a local runner and a member of the Grand Strand Running Club. I also met Logan's wife and daughter who are new runners! At the packet pick-up area, I met two elderly men that were volunteering, and they were both from Maine! One was from Berwick and the other was from Sanford. The one from Berwick told me he would be at mile 11 on the marathon course volunteering and sure enough I did end up finding him for a picture during the race.

Lovely boardwalk at Myrtle Beach.

Time to rock out #5!

I woke up at 4am and put on my 50 for Billy shirt and began walking to the start. It was a beautiful morning and there was a full moon! At the start line, "Sweet Caroline" was being played and I really wanted to start singing and dancing. Hearing that song made me think of Red Sox games with my dad and cousin Michala. We would always have a blast singing "Sweet Caroline."

At the start! Notice the full moon :)

I talked to several runners at the start, including first time marathoners and Marathon Maniacs and 50 Staters. My favorite newbie was a lady named Kathy who was with her husband, they were from Nebraska but now residing in Myrtle Beach. It was her first marathon and she was nervous. However, Kathy just ran 20 miles on the beach with weights a few days before the marathon. Clearly, she had nothing to be worried about. I ended up seeing Kathy at the end of the marathon and she was ecstatic. She was with her family and ready to hit up Margaritaville! It's always a joy to see first time marathoners make it to the finish line.

I also met Bill, a 50 stater who had ran 72 marathons. He saw my 50 for Billy shirt and talked to me for a few minutes before the start and told me, "Pain is expected, injury is optional." I love his motto.

During the marathon, I met Larry Macon who is a Guinness World Record holder. In 2008, Macon ran 105 races of 26.2 miles or more—the most anyone has ever run in a year. He is amazing and so personable. I talked to him for about 10 minutes or so. I asked him what number Myrtle Beach was for him. He told me it was his 721st marathon...jaw dropper. He kept telling me that I was an inspiration for what I was doing, but really Larry, you are the true inspiration. Larry is running several marathons and ultras this year including the Great Cranberry Island Ultra Marathon in July.

Larry and I!

Around mile 16, I wasn't really feeling so great...I was so dehydrated. I thought I had enough liquids in my system, but apparently not. I talked to a lady named Ann, from Modesto, CA and she was very sweet. It was also her 5th marathon. She ran Philly too in November and had a PR with a time of 4:28. We ended up running together for a majority of the second half. She definitely made the time go by faster and was fun to talk to/run with. Hopefully our paths will cross again at another marathon as she wants to complete all 50 states too!

Logan and I.

And last, but not least, I really enjoyed meeting my Twitter/Facebook running friend Logan who is from SC. He ran a 3:09 (BQ) and was so friendly! His wife and daughter were both very nice too! He has inspired his family to run races now. He waited at the finish line with his wife for me to come in which was so sweet! It was great to see them there and to find out how Logan's race went. Hopefully, Logan will come to Boston in a few years to tackle 26.2!! When he does, I will be there cheering him on!

2nd Avenue Pier at Myrtle Beach

After the marathon, I realized I had sprained my ankle somehow and also had a huge blister on the inside of my foot. I still ended up running the day after the marathon on the beach for 3 miles and it felt great! Battle wounds are always worth it. I really took my time during this marathon and talked to other runners, which was enjoyable. I love inspiring other people to keep running and to run for someone or something. The marathon to me is a journey and one big party to remember my dad. He would be happy that I am doing this to stay healthy and to enjoy myself. I asked my brother Bobby what dad would have thought of 50 for Billy and he said, "Dad would have thought it was really awesome." I am sure he is thinking it is a great way to remember him and to benefit others.

Before I left for SC, Joey Cresta from the American Journal wrote an article about 50 for Billy. Here's the link to the article: http://www.keepmecurrent.com/american_journal/news/article_b975d7b4-3a28-11e0-97c1-001cc4c002e0.html

Also a few weeks before the marathon, I did a phone interview with Lauren from the Center for Grieving Children in Portland, ME. Lauren is a graduate student at Boston College and is currently interning at the Center for Grieving Children. We had a great conversation over the phone and she will be writing an article in the Center's newsletter about 50 for Billy. I hope to meet Lauren at one of the Center's events in the near future.

45 more states to go!! I am heading off to VA Beach for the Shamrock Marathon in March. Thanks again everyone for your continued love and support.

State #4: Florida, ING Miami Marathon

2011-02-01T08:18:00.000-08:00

"Every setback is a setup for a comeback." This describes my experience with Florida. I was unable to run Disney due to being sick, but then came back to tackle Miami even while on antibiotics.

Marlins Mascot...very ironic!

This was my first marathon experience on my own. I was anxious and nervous at first, but it was very liberating to travel by myself and to meet other runners. I arrived in MIA a few days before the marathon and went out for a 6 mile run. The weather was beautiful the whole time I was there. I hung out at South Beach the day before the race and drank lots of H2O!

On the morning of the race, I woke up at 3am to get a shuttle at 4am. The shuttle was about 2 miles away from where I was staying. It was so funny because as I was walking down Washington Ave in Miami Beach everyone was out clubbing and drinking. The bars and clubs stay open until 5am. I was hit on by some random guy...he said, "hey mami, where you going??" I didn't say anything because it was completely obvious where I was going with running clothes and my bib # on.

The shuttle bus ride was quick to the start area in downtown Miami. The start was at the American Airlines Arena where the Miami Heat play. I didn't sleep well the night before, probably slept for only 3 hours. I was a bit emotional in the morning, the weather felt the same way it did the day my dad died. Once I got into my corral and talked to other runners, I felt a lot better. I talked to a local running group in my corral, most of them were first time marathoners...awesome!! I met a commerical litigation attorney named Melissa who was from Miami. It was her first marathon and she was so sweet. I told her about my journey and gave her a 50 for Billy magnet.

The race started at 6:15am and runners ran under a huge United States flag that was at the World Trade Center after 9/11. The beginning of the race was absolutely beautiful. All of downtown Miami was lit up and the sunrise was gorgeous. The course itself was very beautiful, and very flat. The weather was great until about 10am. The heat was really on and the humidity was high. I had covered myself early in the morning with sunblock, but it didn't do much for me.

Around mile 17, a man running his first marathon with a shirt on that said "WHAT WALL?" ran to catch up with me and he said, "You didn't know this until now, but you're my motivation. I just read your shirt and your dad is proud." I talked to him for about 5 minutes and he said he has two more marathons planned--Kentucky Derby and Marine Corps Marathon (with his son)! He asked me, "Is the marathon worth it in the end?" and I told him "Yes, it's the best feeling in the world." I started to pick up the pace again because he got me pumped up. He stopped and walked and said, "go get em." I wished him the best of luck and told him he could do it!

The next runner I met was a Marathon Maniac Diva, Bonnie. I ran with her for a few minutes and talked to her about races. She is doing the Gaspiralla Ultra Marathon in Tampa in February.

During the race, I heard a group of ladies talking about how boring it would be to run a marathon alone. I thought to myself, it's not boring at all. It's actually quite self-reflecting and liberating.

As I reached the last few miles, which were scorching hot and over a sunshine exposed bridge, I thought of my dad. I wished he could have been in Miami with me. I cried a little and then called my mom and said "I am at mile 24!" I finished strong with a kick at the end. I clearly do not know how to race a marathon. I am an endurance athlete, there's no question, but I am not a racer. I am not concerned about where I finish, I just want to have fun and talk to other runners. I did exactly that. I inspired a few others out there and that was my main goal. That will continue to be my goal.

Miami taught me more about myself. I can be alone for a weekend far away from family and friends and still have a fun time. I can rock out 26.2 miles solo and still laugh and cry at the end. I can talk to my dad and know he is listening and smiling down on me. I can finish a race and enjoy it for the sake of running, for the feeling of being alive.

ING Miami Marathon!

2011-01-11T21:01:00.000-08:00

I just got home from the Hood to Coast premiere and it reassured me that I must go back to Florida this month and cross it off my list! I was too sick to run the Disney Marathon this past weekend which was disappointing, but for the best. I just registered for the ING Miami Marathon and donated $10.00 for orange shoe laces :) http://ingrfsb.com/flash?d=7 The money supports youth running in Miami--I am all about it!! I started running when I was 12 ;) I am heading to Miami on January 28th. You're probably thinking, this girl is nuts, she is still on antibiotics and wants to run a marathon. Well, I guess you could say that.

The marathon continues to teach me a lot about myself and others. So far it has taught me that anything is possible, and that I need running in order to be happy and for my sanity! I have found that some of my best and loyal friends are runners. We share a special bond.

After I lost my dad, I put running on the back burner and forgot how much I loved it. I was in shock and so depressed that I didn't even want to get out of bed sometimes. The feeling of losing someone suddenly is surreal. I tried and tried to ignore the reality of it all, but eventually had to acknowledge what had happened. My energy was zapped. I didn't want to compete in any more college races because my dad wasn't on the cross-country courses or at the track meets cheering me on. It just wasn't the same. He never missed any of my athletic events from t-ball, ballet, soccer, basketball, softball to cross-country and track.

I can finally run for the fun and enjoyment of running. I have no desire to be competitive along this journey because there is a much bigger picture beyond competition. I would rather take my time and talk to others along the way. Perhaps even lend a helping hand to a first time marathoner the last few miles or talk to others with similar losses. This journey is about inspiring people of all ages to take a proactive approach to losing a loved one. I wish someone had been there when I lost my dad to tell me to not give up on running especially when I needed it to the most.

I want to thank everyone who is supporting and following my journey, especially my mom and twin brother Bobby. It wouldn't be the same without all of you.

It feels good to be able to enjoy running again; to support the Center for Grieving Children; and to honor my dad, my best friend.

Epic marathon failure.

2011-01-10T12:38:00.000-08:00

Well, I just got back from Orlando and wasn't able to run the Disney Marathon. The first day that I arrived there with my aunt and cousin, I was feeling just fine and suddenly became very sick. I had aches, a fever, sore throat, a cold, and a terrible cough. My aunt, who is an RN told me that I needed to go to an urgent care clinic. I went to a nearby clinic and the doctor told me that I most likely became so sick because of all of the germs on the airplane. So, here I am back in Massachusetts with a sinus and upper respiratory infection. The doctor prescribed me codeine cough syrup and biaxin for 10 days. I am feeling a lot better now, but there was no way I was going to force myself to run 26.2 when I could barely get out of bed.

I was able to make the best out of it, and laugh with my cousin and aunt, but it did really stink to go to Florida and not be able to run. I am itching to go back once I feel better and run a marathon. I am thinking about the ING Miami Marathon at the end of the month, but first I have to feel better!!

I have officially started to raise money for the Center for Grieving Children in Portland, Maine. Here is the link to my donation page: http://www.gifttool.com/athon/MyFundraisingPage?ID=1226&AID=1432&PID=181086

Thanks so much everyone for all of your support. I'll be back on the roads hopefully soon!!

12 in 2011

2010-12-20T14:25:00.000-08:00

I will run 12 marathons in 2011 if the Center for Grieving in Portland, Maine accepts my offer to fund raise money on their behalf. I went to free support groups at the Center for Grieving Children after my father passed away. It helped me a lot at a time when I really needed to know that others were there and could relate.I will be paying for all of my travel expenses on my own throughout this journey. Please stay tuned for a possible ongoing fundraiser in the near future!

State #3: Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Marathon

2010-11-22T09:55:00.000-08:00

@tuesday726 with her amazing sign!!

Here I am at 5:30am ready to go!! My twin brother Bobby woke up while I was getting ready so he snapped this picture! I was so excited to hit the road and begin another journey.

To start, I flew in from Boston on my own and took the Liberty Shuttle to my hotel Windsor Suites on Benjamin Franklin Pkwy. On the shuttle, a lady from Houston, TX was talking to me and asked why I was in Philly. I told her that I was running the marathon and she got all excited. She said she had done 1/2 marathons and that her siblings do full marathons. She was very sweet and I asked her about the Austin Marathon. She told me that it is challenging, but beautiful. I asked her if she had ever been to Maine and she had been to Bar Harbor/Mount Desert Island where my dad grew up!!

I arrived to the hotel and then walked to the expo to get my race packet & bib. The expo was AMAZING. It was huge and I was extremely impressed with how well organized it was. Bart Yasso was at the Runner's World booth and he was selling copies of his book "My Life on The Run." I had him autograph a copy and also snatched a picture of him and Mayor Nutter as the media came by when Bart was signing my book!

Mayor Nutter & Bart Yasso

Bart was very personable and sincere. I told him about my goal to run 50 marathons in 50 states in memory of my dad and he said, "you will do it." My brother arrived to Philly from NYC a few hours after I got into the city. The next day, we went out for lunch with a group of Twitter runners! @ericasara organized an awesome lunch at Marathon Grill. It was great to meet a bunch wonderful runners and to later see them on the course!!! Thanks @gksarahj5 for convincing me to go to lunch and for being at mile 14!! Then my brother Bobby and I adventured to Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, National Constitution Center, and of course we went to the Museum of Art and ran up the Rocky steps. We ran up them while listening to "Gonna Fly Now"---the Rocky theme song!! The Rocky song is also played at the start of the marathon and at the finish.

Now onto the marathon, the course was absolutely beautiful with only a couple of hills. At the start, Mayor Nutter and Bart Yasso were cheering on fans. The Mayor was even giving high fives to runners at the end! I felt great during the whole race and did not hit "the wall." I think the Zensa pink compression socks saved my legs!! The race was very well organized and the volunteers were GREAT! There were spectators all along the course and lots of music. I loved mile 7 at Drexel University, where fraternity and sorority members were drinking and blasting "Teach Me How To Dougie." Every marathon has a theme song and that was it!! Chicago '09 was "I Gotta Feeling" by Black Eyed Peas. The bib numbers have your names on them which was great because people were yelling my name the whole entire race.

With my Jersey cousins!

Kelly and I at the finish!

The first few miles went by Christ Church, the Delaware River, Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, City Hall, Drexel University, and the Philly Zoo. The marathon goes along Kelly Drive which is along the Schuykill River...so pretty!! Boathouse Row was especially beautiful. I loved Manayunk at mile 20, it was packed and there were tons of cheering and music. I felt great at mile 20 and did not have any pain. There were cheerleaders at mile 24 which was awesome!! I was running with a girl Kelly that I had just started to talk to, she is from the Philly area, but now lives in Colorado Springs. She told me that she lost her dad at age 16. I really enjoyed talking to her and ended up finishing the race with her. The picture above is of Kelly and I after finishing.

I highly recommend the Philly Marathon. The medal at the end is so rewarding and the people of Philly were awesome spectators! Thank you to my New Jersey cousins for coming to the marathon and having lunch with Bobby and I, it was a blast.

I felt great at the end and still do feel pretty darn good for running 26.2 miles. Thank you everyone for all of your support and good luck wishes & congratulations. Congrats to everyone that ran this past weekend. It was a pleasure to meet you all and keep up the running. Now it's onto the Disney Marathon in January!! DREAM BIG!

Off to PHILLY!! 3 days to go!!

2010-11-18T14:22:00.000-08:00

I am off to Philly tomorrow morning. On Sunday I am taking on the Philly Marathon course. It will be my third marathon in memory of my Dad. I can't wait to meet all of you out there and to rock the city of Philadelphia! "When you feel the sting of sweat in your eyes, or when you hit the wall....PUSH THROUGH PHILLY."

11 days until my journey continues...

2010-11-09T21:08:00.000-08:00

In 11 days, I will be running the Philadelphia Marathon. Right now, I am experiencing many emotions. I am excited, nervous, anxious, but I am feeling mentally prepared. I know my dad will be with me and give me the strength to finish.

I can't wait to run in 11 days and feel alive. The marathon reminds me that my dad will always be watching over me and his strength has been passed onto me.

To those running the Philly Marathon, I hope to meet you there and good luck!

From January to June 2011, I will have one marathon each month!!

2010-11-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

I just registered for the Myrtle Beach Marathon and the Shamrock Marathon in VA Beach. I will be running 6 marathons in 2011, possibly more depending on how I feel! I am excited, anxious, nervous, and just overall happy that I am able to run.

I am hoping that one of these years, I will do 12 in 12 months! We will see about that though :)

26.2 Tattoo

2010-10-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I got my first tattoo...26.2 with a heart instead of the dot! I've wanted this since I finished my first marathon in Maine (Mount Desert Island) in 2008. If you haven't checked out Mount Desert Island, I highly recommend it!

You'll Wait for Me

2010-10-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

If you love running then you're probably on this blog right now. You might be checking out my blog because you're just getting into running, or you've been running for a long time, or you're also running in memory of someone, or for a cause. Whatever your reason is for running, check out this video and you'll love running even more: You'll Wait for Me

-Elizabeth

50 for Billy Mission Statement

2010-10-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

50 for Billy Mission Statement: I am running 50+ marathons in 50 states in memory of my dad, William Mason Trask, who passed away suddenly in 2006 at age 51. My dad loved to travel, but he never got to see all 50 states. I am bringing him with me.

My goal is to complete #51 at the Mount Desert Island Marathon (where my dad grew up) age 51. This will not be a competitive journey. I will not have set goal times for each marathon, instead I want to inspire others along marathon courses to continue to run and to remember why they run. I hope to encourage others of all ages to take a proactive approach to coping with the loss of a loved one.

At the end of my journey, I would like to write a book and donate the proceeds to the Center for Grieving Children in Portland, Maine. Please follow & support me through 1,310 miles. Who will you run for?

Elizabeth Trask
50forbilly@gmail.com
twitter-fiftyforbilly

Marathon shirts

2010-10-12T06:59:00.000-07:00

My shirts are going to look something like this with the picture of my dad on the front and the states on the back!!

The eulogy I wrote...

2010-10-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we just don't know the reasons why...I'm going to miss you Dad. My last memory with you was of us laughing in my car about nothing, simply laughing at each others' laughs to the point that we started to cry. Our relationship was very close and I will never forget laughing and crying with you on numerous occasions. I was always comfortable and safe with you Dad, I still feel that way. I know you are here with me right now as I write this, you are probably lingering right over my shoulder, helping me and telling me not to cry. Just the other day I was outside and the weather was so strange, it was sunny and raining and then where I was standing the sky was dark, but I wasn’t getting rained on at all. You are still here and I can feel you protecting me and telling me “everything will be ok”.

The smell of your Red Sox shirts helped me sleep last night. You were a hard-core Boston Red Sox fan. I won’t forget going to Fenway for Opening Day this summer with you. Trips to Fenway were always fun, you were the loudest fan, always starting the chants. Don’t worry, I will keep that tradition going for you. You really knew how to have a good time. I always had fun with you Dad. You always knew how to make me laugh and smile. You are my courage and my strength everyday. My pain runs so deep that it is hard to even start putting it all into words. Without you in my life things will never be the same.

Please always know I love you and no one can take your place; years may come and go, but your memory will never be erased. Thank you for teaching me what courage really means. You will always be my hero. May you now be at peace, with no more struggles or tough days and remember how much I admired you for the strength and love you showed me everyday. "ALL MY LOVE." I love you Daddy. XOXO, Bethy-Poo

Follow me on Twitter @fiftyforbilly

2010-10-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Danielle convinced me to start a Twitter account to connect with runners and find marathons, etc.!! Follow me @fiftyforbilly :)

Mayor's Marathon, 2011

2010-10-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

My close friend Mary Beth from high school lives in Fairbanks, AK and told me to sign up for a marathon in AK. After looking at her pictures from hiking adventures, I thought it would be a great idea to visit a great friend in a gorgeous place. I will be doing the Mayor's Marathon in June 2011 in Anchorage, AK. Let the adventures continue!! 2011 is going to be one heck of a year...4 marathons in one year...visiting close friends...remembering my dad...

Kentucky Derby Marathon, 2011

2010-10-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Here I am again friends, registering for another marathon. This is going to be #5: Louisville, KY. My friend Lauren from college told me about the marathon and I registered within minutes. See you in April for 26.2!!!

Nike Women's Half Marathon, 2010

2010-10-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

I am running the Nike Women's Half Marathon in less than two weeks in San Francisco. I am very excited since I've never been to the West Coast. My mom and I are going to do all of the tourist stuff. We're going to Napa Valley for wine tours and Alcatraz! I am looking forward to a little break away from everything and some quality time with my mom. So far I've found that the women doing this race are such an inspiration. Nike has a Facebook page and women have been adding photos with captions about why they run. I can't wait to run alongside other women who run because they can and/or in memory of someone close to their hearts. I will keep you posted on my adventure to San Fran!

48 more marathons to go.

2010-09-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Next up is the Philly Marathon in November!! I've never been to Philly, this should be fun!!

Believe in the run ♥ Run the first part with your head, the middle part with your personality, and the last part with your heart ♥

State #2: Illinois, Chicago Marathon, 2009

2010-09-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

Chicago is such an amazing city. My mom and two aunts, Cindy and Judy, came along for the adventure. We explored the whole city a few days before the marathon. There was so much stuff to do. We took a double decker bus to the Navy Pier which was my favorite spot.

this is what mile 24 looks like.

The weather was absolutely freezing the whole time we were there, especially being right near Lake Michigan. The forecast for the marathon was a chance of snow showers and the temperature was around 30 degrees with a very crazy cold wind chill. I had to buy spandex at Dick's Sporting Goods because I was not prepared for it to be so cold. There were 65,000 runners, the ultimate thrill for someone who loves running. It was so amazing. At the start, I talked to a medical student from the Chicago Medical School. It was her very first marathon and she was very nervous, but extremely excited. Her family couldn't be at the race, because they all lived in India, but she was telling me how she uses Skype to keep in touch with them. I gave her some good luck wishes and told her to enjoy the ride. Then we were off! It took 23 minutes to get across the start line because there were so many runners. Sweats were being thrown up in the air and music was blasted. Spectators were everywhere. The course was awesome. It was flat and went through the most popular Chi-town spots: Magnificent Mile, Greektown, Little Italy, and Chinatown. The fans were fabulous, there were different groups of spectators at every mile marker...high school cheerleaders and bands. The first 7 miles went by so quickly and I felt great. The enthusiasm of everyone at the marathon was contagious. At mile 20, I was a hurtin unit, I got some tape from the medical tent and had my knee taped up...good ol' IT Band Syndrome was kickin in. Then there was the Nike+ Powersong Zone which helped me soo much!!

Nike had this huge tunnel with big flatscreens, I could see myself running (not that I really wanted to at mile 20), but it was neat. The song was "I Got a Feeling" by the Black Eyed Peas...great running song. At Mile 24, I talked to two other runners from Chicago who had been doing the marathon since they were young and volunteering at it since a young age. Some random guys had beers and jello shots that they were giving out to runners. The girls and I opted for the jello shots, hey we only had 2 miles left to go and we weren't going to be setting any world records. Damn, those jello shots were good and exactly what we needed. I vaguely remember the last mile, I just remember that my body was in shock and tears of happiness started to stream down my face. When I finished, my mom and aunts found me after being so concerned about my whereabouts while I was running. Then I went back to the hotel room and crashed. I didn't want food or a shower, I just wanted to sleep.

made it!

approaching mile 20

good morning, 6am at the start line.

State #1: Maine, Mount Desert Island Marathon, 2008

2010-09-22T09:56:00.000-07:00


Jenny biked all 26.2 miles along my side :) Special thanks to Jenny Penny for giving me gatorade and listening to me moan and groan the last 6 miles!

my first marathon!

After my father passed away, I didn’t do anything for days. I gave up what I loved the most. I gave up on running. I felt like my dad was no longer there to cheer me on at college track and cross-country meets. I didn’t realize he would always be there. I decided to employ a coping mechanism and way to my memorialize father’s life. Running became my outlet. I wasn’t looking to set a record time, I just wanted to finish. My dad’s attitude in life wasn’t to be the best, but to try your hardest and to give it all you’ve got. I chose Mount Desert Island as my first marathon because my father grew up in Southwest Harbor, Maine. I spent many summer days with my grandparents and him there. The course itself is very challenging with rolling steep hills. Once I registered, I knew my life would be never be the same.

It was a cool, crisp October day and I was very nervous but excited to run. Weeks before the race, I had a t-shirt screen-printed with the picture below. My dad gave me this picture in 1992, when I was six years old. I stepped up to the line of runners after warming up. Many runners came up to me and gave me a hug, pat on the back, or shared their losses with me. I specifically remember one man who came up to me and showed me a pin of his daughter who passed away at a very young age from leukemia. I felt inspired. I felt honored. I was so fortunate to have my father for twenty years. Before I knew it the gun went off and we were well on our way.

Along the course, there were several spots that made me think of my dad and the fun times we shared together. I talked to many runners and ran alongside runners from out of state, first time marathoners, and experienced marathoners. Everyone had their own story. Everyone had their own reason for running. The most challenging part of the race was the last mile when I passed the house my dad grew up in on Main St. in Southwest Harbor. I had tears of happiness, joy, and sadness. Through the pain of running for over five hours, I knew he was with me. I could almost feel my dad giving me the extra push and saying “thank you Bethy, I love you.” When I reached the finish line, I cried with my mom, aunt, and friend Jen who biked the marathon with me. The pain and feeling of accomplishment from finishing a marathon is addictive. The morning after the marathon, several marathoners were staying at our hotel, Acadia Inn in Bar Harbor and sharing their marathon stories. One man was talking to the race director, Gary Allen, about how he had finished fifty marathons, one in each state of the United States...what an awesome way to see the United States. It was amazing to hear him talk. This is how “50 for Billy” began.

CROW ATHLETICS

Doin' it for you Dad-50 Marathons, 50 States

2010-09-22T09:49:00.000-07:00

"Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal, love leaves a memory that no one can steal."

On September 1, 2006, my father suddenly passed away. I was only twenty years old when I lost my best friend. The loss of my father motivated me to run 26.2 miles in his memory. My goal is to run one marathon in each state for my Dad and for myself. I hope this motivates you to find a positive and active way to cope with the loss of a loved one. Who will you run for?

A special thanks to my law school friend Norm for the name "50 for Billy."

Thank you to all of my friends and family who have been there for me and continue to support me through many miles. It wouldn't be the same without you.

last sox game w/dad. (dad, me, cousin michala)

50 is the number.

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — William Mason Trask, “Billy T.,” 51, died unexpectedly at his home in Old Orchard Beach on Sept. 1, 2006. He was born in Caribou in 1955, the beloved child of the late Rev. Joseph Mason Trask and Elizabeth MacDonald Trask of Southwest Harbor.
He attended Lenox School, winning the G. Gardner Monks Award, and graduated from Vermont Academy, winning the Shanaham Cup. He graduated from Nasson College with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1978, earning the Senior Cup for outstanding leadership and scholarship.
He worked for Honeywell, Inc., and later for the Department of Defense on the “Star Wars Project,” doing security work in Kwajalien, Marshall Islands. Bill was also employed as human resources manager for James River Corporation in Old Town and for General Signal Corporation in Pittsfield. During the middle to late 1980s, he was employed at Liberty Mutual and Gallagher-Bassett Services, both in Portland. Bill was very interested and active in politics, working on several political campaigns. He also tirelessly fought for equal rights for the mentally ill in federal court and in the Maine Legislature.
The light of his life were his twin children, Robert and Elizabeth, whom he was very proud of and loved dearly. He was a very caring and involved dad, and was always there to cheer on his kids. He never missed a game or school event, and also coached basketball, baseball and volunteered with his son’s Boy Scout troop. Bill always loved to entertain, and his barbecues were not to be missed. He enjoyed his summer and the beautiful nature of Mount Desert Island. Some of his favorite activities included hiking, fishing, golfing and being with friends and family.
Bill passionately loved the Boston Red Sox from the age of 5 until the day he died. He could always be seen proudly wearing a Red Sox hat or jacket. Trips to a Red Sox game with Bill were adventures not to be forgotten. While traveling on the turnpike, many times he would pay the toll for the car behind him as an act of kindness. On trips to Boston, a stop at the Hilltop Steak House was a must, and a stop at Kowloon’s was essential on the way home. He insisted on arriving at Fenway Park at least three hours before the game started to mingle with the crowd. He was always an enthusiastic fan, and to be sitting near Bill in the stands was a hoot for all. He was a trivia buff of sports and American history.
His heroes were John Wayne and Red Sox legend Tony Conigliaro, whose life and times were admired by Bill for his tenacity and resilience. Bill lived his life to the fullest and his strong faith in God helped him through many dark times. He is now at peace.
Bill is survived by his twin children, Robert Joseph and Elizabeth Mary, and his former wife and friend, Suzanne Lord Trask. He also leaves several aunts, uncles, and cousins on Mount Desert Island and in Massachusetts.