Flying with myTEAM TRIUMPH

Anyone who loves planes probably knows about Oshkosh, Wisconsin because of Air Venture. Air Venture is a week-long celebration of planes and all things aviation that takes place here, which turns our tiny airport into the busiest airport in the world and draws a half million people each year. Although we've never went, we certainly enjoy all the cool planes and tricks that we can see while driving around town. (And this year AJ got to spend a whole day there exploring with his uncle.) Part of the festivities include a 5k race, which partners with myTEAM TRIUMPH. 

Team Teddy all smiles before the race.

We decided that since the race was at 7 a.m. that we could sneak in a quick run before heading over for my Grandpa's 96th birthday and dad's retirement party. I'm so glad we did because this was one of the races that I think Teddy enjoyed the most, simply because of the scenery and his awesome angels.

Normally crowds are cheering for all the myTEAM TRIUMPH captains, but there weren't many spectators for this race, even at the finish line. Most of the people we saw seemed a bit confused as to why on earth there were a bunch of people running that early in the morning. That's because we ran right through where people were camped with their planes, so they were waking up to nearly 1,000 people running around them. We got extra perplexed people in the beginning when Teddy's team was leading the race. 

Mindy sprinted ahead to take a few pictures.

See, Teddy had rather fast angels this time around. Our angels included Mindy and John, a mom and son who drove up from Milwaukee and spent the previous night just to do this race with myTEAM TRIUMPH before cross-country season started. How's that for commitment to make a difference? John is a senior, who was reluctant to share his race pace with the group and said he'd be good with 8- or 9-minute miles. My response to that was that I'd prefer closer to 9-minute miles, so I could keep up. His usual race pace? 5:45-minute miles. I think Teddy would love to fly with him at that pace.

I love that John wanted a post-race picture with Teddy.

Our other angels were Hannah and Angie, friends who were taught by the mom of another Captain years ago. They were amazingly sweet ladies who pointed out different planes and other exciting things to Teddy as we ran.

Team Teddy crossing the finish line.

Usually we only have 3 angels per Captain, but Teddy gained a few extra angels because another Captain couldn't make it. He absolutely adored the extra attention and loved all the sights along this race. It's always so amazing to me that people will give up their time to race with Teddy and our other Captains. I loved their curiosity about Teddy, their acceptance and their support. 

Fun memories and medals!

I definitely hope we can catch this race again next year!