The Rotary Club of Pittsfield Josh Billings Runaground team got mugged again this year, coming in 136 out of 283 teams, 3 rd in the Corporate division. Our cyclist was Rich Peters (husband of Alison Peters, the Dalton Rotarian who ran for us last year). Rich replaced Don Kuczarski who was unable to cycle due to leg injury. Dave Hall was our runner (who missed last year due to injury). John O’Brien and Ron Latham were supposed to canoe, but on the day before race John reported symptoms of Covid, so a last minute replacement was needed. A desperate call to Jeff Hassett, our substitute paddler from last year, revealed he, too, had Covid. In true “Service Above Self” style, Jess Rumlow stepped up to sit in the canoe, having no experience with racing boats, and no opportunity to practice before the race. She did assure team managers that she fondly remembers canoe paddling from back when she was a Girl Scout. No problem though. An Internet and U-tube search for canoe racing advice was all she needed to put O’Brien to shame (as well as put his spot on the team in jeopardy for next year). Congratulations team!
