RACE ACROSS THE ROCK 2011 by Ruby Ryder

Jason and Yigit, a year ago committed to a dream,
With training and determination, they became a two-man team.
“To race across the rock” was the goal they had in mind,
Courage and encouragement were not hard to find.

Their wish to raise awareness had inspired them thru and thru,
The logo – “race for mental health” told what they planned to do.
The trail would be the railway bed, with scenery second to none,
But it might present some obstacles before each day was done.

From west at Port aux Basques to east at Signal Hill,
Lay eight hundred, eighty-three kilometres to kill.
On July 13th, with lots of support, and a crew to guide the way,
Each day would be a challenge to accomplish 60 k.

The updates on the e-mail and on the blog site, too,
Was something we all wondered if they’d have the time to do.
Days one thru four they were held back by rain and wind and cold,
But “spirits were not dampened” is what they bravely told.

The bridge across a river, after the rainstorm, was washed out,
With a stick in hand for balance, they each faced it without doubt.
They trudged through rapid water – 200 feet they say,
Intent to reach the other side, they made it all the way.

Milestone one was Corner Brook – it happened the 5th day,
We heard them when they shouted, “we’re one-quarter of the way”.
The campsite for the next two nights was an amazing sight to see,
That lake was certainly a place where we all wished that we could be.

The next day was a “tough one”, too; the gravel was not good,
After 30 k and “a little tired”, we certainly understood.
Then on thru the Gaff Topsails and Millertown as well,
The railway here once flourished – the evidence did tell.

The media were now caught up, and got the message out,
“Donate for the cause – ‘Mental Health’ is what it’s all about”.
Family and friends were all tuned in, so very proud of you,
You are quite an inspiration, because of what you chose to do.

Day 9 at noon, they had reached Grand Falls, with half the distance done,
With optimism still much alive, as if they’d just begun.
Then on to a spot called Jumper’s Brook, before the sun was set,
The support crew would be waiting, to make sure their needs were met.

On the 11th day, Yigit said “I’m out”, leaving us feeling sad,
The pain had started on day two, and had gotten very bad.
It sure did take much courage, with each stride along the way,
Congratulations and Good Luck, for you accomplished 500 k.

For the next couple of days, J ran alone, enthusiasm strong,
Rod will be joining up real soon – we hope it won’t be long.
Rod did meet up for day 13, eager to start the day,
The goal for J was milestone three – three-quarters of the way.

After 42 k into the day, that milestone he had met,
They continued on, up winding hills to see how far they’d get,
14 k from Clarenville and much to their delight,
The 13th day had ended and it was there they’d spend the night.

The pictures said it all – they sure were having fun,
While utilizing every stream as rescue from the sun.
Another day was near the end, we can’t believe it’s true,
“Only three days more, is all that’s left to do”.

An exclamation of joy – “we are oh so close”, on day 15 we read,
“Come by Chance is on the horizon”, was also what they said.
Tickle Harbour is where they rested that night – their inspiration grew,
Unconsciously, they have passed it on, to folks like me and you.

They reached Paradise on the 17th day – there were friends and family, too,
We just can’t explain the joy we felt when J first came into view.
“The last day is tomorrow” – in the morning they’ll be on their way,
We’ll all be at the finish line to share that special day.

On July 30th it was in the NEWS – “They will arrive at noon”,
On Signal Hill the excitement was great – we knew we would see them soon.
Old friends, new friends greeted them – “We can’t believe you’re here”,
After some favourite food and a good night’s rest, they were none the worse for wear.

J, your goal to “Race 4 Mental Health” now has been fulfilled,
We see you as a hero, for all the lessons you’ve instilled.
For all of us who listened, we found your words quite true,
They do apply to all of us, in everything we do.

Yigit and Rod – you are heroes, too – of that there is no doubt,
And loyal friends, too, is what you are – that’s what we soon found out.
CHEERS to the crew who did their part, to make a dream come true,
Jason – I could never say in just a few words, how proud I am of you!!

Momma R