By Jim Dresbach,
Pentagram Staff Writer
JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va. - The plight of temptation overcomes even the best athletes; they battle how to stay active and on pace with constant running regiments during the holidays.
A total of 136 Marines, soldiers and civilians put thoughts of roasted poultry and mashed potatoes on the back burner to run the fifth annual Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Turkey Trot, which started and finished outside Cpl. Terry L. Smith Gymnasium.
After a half-hour or less of calorie burning Nov. 15, some runners explained how they ward off the dietary demons and keep each day filled with a multi-mile run.
Race winner Joe Galvin finished the five-kilometer race in 15 minutes and 58 seconds, but admitted one holiday traditional sweet can finish him off.
"I have trouble staying away from the cookies," he said with a smile.
Female overall winner Margaret Smith crossed the finish line in 17:33, but when a Thanksgiving dessert is brought to the dining room table, she has to use her willpower.
"I love pumpkin pie," she said without hesitation.
A gloved and layered Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall, Commanding Officer Col. Anthony S. Barnes led by example by sporting extra clothing – a point he made when asked how to keep running into December and January. He also added not to yield to the extra slice of dessert or favorite drink during the holidays.
"Everything can be done in moderation," Barnes said after he finished.
Placing second in the men’s category was Brian Daugherty (17:25) and the third male to cross the finish line was J.J. Martin in 17:32.
Rounding out the female top three were runner-up Yuko Whitestone (19:32) and Lisa Hamp (20:46).