Patrick Lyons I grew up near Seattle where I began spinting in Junior High School with the encouragement of my father who was a college sprinter.

In 9th grade I won the Pacific Northwest Junior Olympics 100 meter while sprinting in bare feet. My competition complained loudly that it was unfair, but the judges ruled that I was legal.

My primary sport in high school and college was football as a running back. After college and one year of professonal football, as a wide receiver, I gave up my cleats for graduate school and raising kids.

When I turned 55, my youngest daughter thought I should sprint again so I worked out on grass in preparation for Pasadena with her timing me to see if I even had a chance to place. On my second workout I stepped in a hole and sprained my back. Although sprinting with a back brace, I was still able to come in second in the 100 meter. Not long after, I became a Strider because of the club’s excellent reputation. Recently, my participaton has been sporadic due to medical issues.

I love track since I always feel healthier while training, and I am grateful that I can still sprint when many of my friends can no longer walk fast. The Striders are an amazing family who demonstrate incredible sportsmanship by cheering on every athlete no matter where they place.