TF Protector Soldier wins women's division of Air Force half marathon

AFGHANISTAN

09.13.2009

Story by Capt. Thomas Cieslak 

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

A Task Force Protector Soldier placed first overall for women running in the U.S. Air Force Half Marathon, Sept. 13, on Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

Army Capt. Amy Bourie, a judge advocate general in the 16th Military Police Brigade, serving with TF Protector, placed first in the women's division after running the 13.3 mile course in 98 minutes, 50 seconds. She averaged approximately 7 minutes, 30 seconds a mile.

"I'm a big believer that the Army pays us all to be athletes," says Bourie about her commitment to physical fitness. "Staying in shape is part of our job."

Bourie trained for the event by running six to eight miles on a regular basis and between 13 and 18 miles one day a week. She lifted weights and used elliptical machines in the gyms on Bagram Air Field on "recovery days" to keep active.

"Exercise for me is a big stress-reliever, and I think if you have a regular exercise plan, being mentally ready for challenges is a lot easier," said Bourie about the benefits she receives from working out.

The event began at 5:00 a.m. at the Bagram Morale, Welfare and Recreation tent complex with the singing of the national anthem, an invocation by an Air Force Chaplain and a safety brief. Runners stepped off from the start line at 5:30 a.m. to a cheering crowd.

The course wound around the BAF perimeter. Groups of U.S. military service members not running the half marathon volunteered their time to provide runners with cold water.

Runners were greeted at the finish line by the cheers of service members who finished before them and were given their official run time. Those who finished were presented with a medal for their efforts and in recognition of their accomplishment.

"Everyone ran in their brigade t-shirts and cheered for one another at the finish line, letting everyone know that the 16th [MP] is both fit to fight, and a strong and dedicated team," said Bourie about finishing with fellow paratroopers from Fort Bragg. "We have a lot to be proud of."

• Date Taken: 09.13.2009
• Date Posted: 09.22.2009 10:38
• Story ID: 39135
• Location: AF