October 21, 2009 - We live a life that requires risk to be enjoyed fully.

Yo run gang,

By now, most of you have heard that 3 half marathon runners died at the Detroit Free Press Race last Sunday, 2 at around mile 12 and one at just after finishing the 13.1 mile run. My heart goes out to the families who are no doubt looking for answers that might help them accept their loss. I have attempted to read all the information available on this tragedy so that I might learn something that I could share with you, something that could have prevented these deaths or prevent future tragedies. I have found nothing.

At the time of the deaths it was sunny and in the high 30s, low 40s, what most runners would consider an ideal day for a distance run. All three runners, men, ages 26, 36 and 65 appear to have been well trained and healthy. The initial autopsy findings found no immediate cause of death. Toxicology and other tests will take weeks to be finalized but again the autopsy uncovered no obvious reasons for the deaths. Medical attention was immediate and even the use of defibrillators had no effect. It all seems so wrong on a day that seemed so right in the City of Detroit.

Race day from a participants perspective: My wife Kathy and I ran well and enjoyed every minute of the half marathon, from the pre race excitement to the music and dancing at the post race party, heading home tired and fulfilled, totally unaware of the sad events that had taken place on this glorious fall day.

We live a life that requires risk to be enjoyed fully; we must weight the risks and benefits in every choice we make. As I look out my window, the sky is blue, the sun is shining and my choice is to keep working or go out for a run. Ive made my choice; Ill see you on the road.

Randy Step, an obsessed runner, looking for answers