LIFE Runners set high standard at Show-Me Games

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.”

Jeremiah 1:5

A group of 13 LIFE Runners sporting bright blue jerseys that asked spectators to “Remember the Unborn” won big at this year’s Show-Me Games, July 23-25 in Columbia, Missouri.

The runners earned 22 track and field medals at Walton Stadium, while proclaiming Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.”

The 13 runners came from Annunciation Parish in California, Immaculate Conception Parish in Jefferson City, St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Ozark and St. Martin Parish in St. Martins.

Adding to the excitement, they competed in and won six relay races, demonstrating teamwork and dedication to each other.

They also won medals in individual events.

The adult team, composed of three brothers and a high school friend (Seth Frank, Josh Frank, Charlie Frank, and Jon Hathcock), won gold in the 4x100 and 4x400 meter relays (40-44 year old category).

Reportedly, a couple of those runners may qualify for an even older age category.

Mr. Frank, assistant cross country and track coach at St. Martin School in St. Martins, coached his daughters’ two middle school relay teams and his son as well.

He and the nine young athletes met weekly preceding the games to build speed and endurance as well as coordinate efficient relay hand-offs.

It was hard work, but it paid off.

The seventh grade team (Sophia Berhorst, Claire Bybee, Corynn Frank, and Brenna Schulte) won gold in the 4x100 and 4x400 meter relays (11-12 year old category).

The fifth grade team (Nicki Frank, Jocelyn Hamman, Olivia Kauffman, and Sophia Riegel) also won gold in the 4x100 and 4x400 meter relays (9-10 year old category).

Hezekiah Frank competed in the 100 and 200 meter races (5-6 year old category) in his first official track meet.

While the young people will likely remember the teamwork or accomplishment and the adults may bask in recaptured youth or remaining fit into middle age, it is their hope that their testimony will be the thing remembered by anyone who witnessed or reads about the races.

“Wearing the LIFE Runners gear is a small thing we do to remind each other that He knew us before we were born, and that the unborn deserve our protection,” said Mr. Frank.

Visit liferunners.org for information or to sign up.