The 46th Labour Day Classic has special meaning to one local
PRINCE GEORGE–The 46th Labour Day Classic run is just one week away today, (Aug.25th) and for one local, it holds the memory and inspiration to be better.
This year, the run is extra special to Bill Masich because he ran it 40 years ago–back when it was called the “Prince George to Boston Marathon” in 1979, when Terry Fox ran it too. Masich, a local high-school teacher, says he remembers the run very well, being almost 11 at the time.”Terry finished and I didn’t,” he said to us in an over the phone interview.
Masich says that he was an avid track runner–his dad being a track coach, however he says he wasn’t in shape to run eight and a half miles that day. Three miles in he says he cramped and “collapsed like a house of cards.”
“Terry showed up with his one leg and his prosthetic and he kept going. He just ran, and ran, and ran.” He says that looking back now, as an adult, Terry’s determination to finish is hugely inspiring to him. Also inspirational, Wheel Chair Athlete, Rick Hansen, who Masich says also took part in the race.