Normally, we would hit the snooze button on a dark, rainy morning at 5:00 AM, but nothing was going to stop the MGA team from hosting the 10th Annual Triple Crown Showdown last Sunday! It was a few hours before race time, and the weather wasn’t looking good. Nevertheless, we remained optimistic and began to set up.
Volunteers joined us bright and early, each going out of their way to make this event happen. Whether it was staging the raffle prizes or setting up the outdoor tents, our volunteers and committee did not waste a minute! As time went by, the rain poured harder and our “assembly line” frequently stalled. But as they say, the show must go on.
Vendors and sponsors started to arrive and stake out their spots on the parking lot. Watching the various businesses show up bright and early in the midst of the storm was incredibly motivating, and their commitment and dedication to supporting our organization most definitely showed.
Before we knew it, the run/walk participants were making their way to the registration tables! Friends and family stood in solidarity and it was evident that nothing was going to rain on their MGA parade. Participants had a chance to grab their t-shirts, enter our raffle, pick up swag bags, and mingle with fellow acquaintances. We had to delay the race for a bit due to the inclement weather, but watching our runners, walkers, and trotters cross the finish line was worth the wait.
As the St. Louis Program Coordinator, this was the first showdown that I actually got to attend. COVID prevented us from doing an in-person race last year so I was really excited to finally see this event come to life. The one thing that I was truly struck by, (thank God not lightning!), was how devoted the run committee, volunteers, board, medical advisory committee, vendors, sponsors, photographers, race ambassadors, my team, and participants were despite the forecast. Watching everyone get to work in the rain with nothing but smiles on their faces reminded me of how important events like these are to our organization. The MGA is a small team and this event was a success as a result of all the people that supported us in making it happen. I was touched by all the people (and puppers!) that cared enough to come out in spite of the chaotic climate. It just goes to show you how critical our programs and services are to the myasthenia gravis community, and we want to always be that extra source of support to those in need.
Rain or shine, the event turnout was even better than expected! On Sunday we had a total of 518 registered participants, a record for the MGA! 41 of these individuals were VIPs (persons living with MG). The MGA has had an ongoing goal to raise $50,000.00, and by the end of the event, we raised over $58,000.00!!
There are no words that could ever express our gratitude and appreciation for everyone that contributed to this event to make it such a triumph. Thank you to all who continue to recognize the MGA as a valuable organization. Now, let’s start planning for next year!
The following blog post was written by Meridith O'Connor, St. Louis Program Coordinator for the Myasthenia Gravis Association. #MyastheniaGravisAssociation #MGADigest #myastheniagravis