After a great night of sleep at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Downtown Minneapolis, we presented a Certificate of Appreciation. The hotel kindly provided free rooms to our women's team. Staff member Amy holds the Peace Torch and certificate.
What can you say about a river that flows almost 2,500 miles through our great nation, is a habitat for millions of birds as well as masses of mammals and fish, touches 10 states, and provides work and recreation to millions of Americans? The mighty, magnificent Mississippi...
We gathered in the morning at the Lake Harriett Bandshell. Rarely on the Peace Run do we get the opportunity for a large group to run the miles together, but today was one such day!
Ismail, Evrin, Tulin and Sevi made it a family fun run!
Our 11-mile run along the Minnehaha Parkway Regional Trail would ultimately take us to St. Paul. On group runs some people go the whole way; others elect to do a shorter distance. Our Peace Run support vehicles are always nearby to provide drinks, snacks, and a respite from the heat.
Among the runners joining today are Gints from Latvia, local runners Danny, Hilde and Ahn, plus 25-year-old Amelia who is training for the Minneapolis Marathon.
The route has both a pedestrian lane and a bike path, which gave us the opportunity to meet many bicyclists who took a brake (get it?) to hold the torch.
Sean and Yuyudhan lead the way.
Another local taking a moment to put a little more peace into the world.
The strong community spirit throughout Minneapolis shows up in myriad and charming ways.
Yuyudan, Minneapolis local, finds a young friend eager to run with the torch.
Actually, make that two young friends!
Hilda and Anh lead the charge up a hill.
Have you ever just happened upon a giant bunny statue when out for a run? Can't pass up a photo op like that!
The team takes a break on the course.
When the Peace Run vans parked temporarily in front of this family's house, the father and children were eager to come outside and chat. They also turned on the sprinklers so the hot, tired runners could cool down.
Another local family showing their support for peace!
Today marked the last day on the team for a number of our Peace Runners--it's time to get back to their home countries and cities. As each runner is so integral to the daily operations and success of this epic endeavor, it's always hard to say goodbye.
The last mile took us across the 46th Street Bridge, which years ago was designated as a Sri Chinmoy Peace Bridge. What a special place to close out our group run.
From the bridge, the runners went every which way--some to the airport, some home to Minneapolis, and some onward to St. Paul and beyond!
Fox Cameraman Russel Wese had a big smile and a moment with the Peace Torch when he interviewed the runners on the road in St. Paul.
After running the miles, it's time for the smiles. Can't decide whether you want coffee or ice cream? Have both!
Tavishi topped it off with whipped cream.
