When Mike and Marcie White married, they not only began a new life together, they also made a commitment to each other to make sure that life together lasted as long as possible.
The Vietnam veteran and dean of students at MSU said he and his bride of 25 years, a university foreign language instructor, had always had an interest in health and physical fitness, so they took up running together as a hobby and a way to stay healthy and energetic. Ten marathons and dozens of triathlons later-including the sport's most grueling contest, the Iron Man Triathlon-the pair is still running strong, as well as helping others discover the sport.
Through their Web site, www.boardtownrunners.org, and a weekly running group they have hosted in their home for more than 18 years, they seek to encourage athletes and runners of all skill levels and assist them in achieving their running and cycling goals.
"For a true athlete, this sport's not about winning medals or beating an opponent," Mike White said. "A true athlete's fulfillment comes from the desire to overcome your limitations, achieve within yourself and be the best you can be."