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Aug. 2009 Monster Runner – John LivingstonPublished by
The Monster Runner Award The Monster Runner Award is designed to celebrate the runners in our community who excel in race finishes, overcome personal challenges, run personal bests, contribute to a better life for those around them, and go far beyond their comfort zone to find something special within. Think about running for 52 years. Now think about being 75 years old and still being able to run and do the things that you love. That’s right, at 75, John Livingston is still going strong and is the August 2009 Monster Runner of the month. Among his many adventures, John has done 20 straight Peachtree Road Races and extensive bike trips through the Black Forest of Germany, Tuscany and Florence (Italy, not Oregon). He was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin and raised in Chicago, running his first race at the Galloway School in Georgia some seven decades ago. Even with all the places he’s been, Pre’s Trail and the Eugene Half Marathon are still his favorite places to run and race.
John’s favorite quote is “Just remember you are unique like everybody else”. When he’s not running or biking, John loves to spend time with his family (including four children and three grandchildren). He has been with his wife Bryna for 49 years and just spent a weekend at his nieces wedding, where he was reunited with his brothers and sisters for the first time in 20 years. John and Bryna have now lived in Eugene for three years. Perhaps the greatest thing about John is his smiling, easy going attitude that makes him a delight to have at events and a pleasure to a join on a run. John can be seen running with the Eugene Running Company Club, where he admits, he loves the activity and social aspect of the group
John’s also a reading enthusiast and particularly enjoys Hemingway’s For Whom the Bell Tolls, - somewhat appropriate, considering John’s striking resemblance to the legendary author. John’s favorite all-time movie is MASH – remember that one? When you meet John, there’s always one thing that stands out above all else – his sincerity and genuine nature. Aside from his incredible example of how we can continue to follow our passions throughout our life, John stands as a reminder that we can grow up to be great people.
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