ROTC cadets use marathon to reinforce core values

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. David A. Jablonski
  • Air Force Print News
WASHINGTON --  Nine Air Force ROTC cadets used the Marine Corps Marathon to help them become better leaders.

The University of Notre Dame cadets from Air Force ROTC Detachment 225 traveled from Indiana to Arlington Va., recently to compete in the 29th Marine Corps Marathon.

The detachment’s athletic goals are to keep cadets in top physical form and lead healthy lifestyles. It readies them for the rigors of an air and space expeditionary force lifestyle that awaits them in defense of America at home and abroad.

“Our marathon (run) followed the core value of excellence in all we do,” Cadet Timothy Kogge said. “It prepares us for future missions and deployments where physical fitness is as much a requirement as intelligence and competent leadership.”

He led his team, finishing at 2 hours, 49 minutes and 45 seconds, giving him 45th place overall and third in the 20-to-24 age group.

Cadet Kogge ran high school cross country and had competed in the Chicago Marathon in 2002 and 2003 and the Boston Marathon in 2003.

“Everyone strove to do their best, whether finishing (in less than) three hours, or in five. Everyone accomplished something amazing,” Cadet Kogge said.

His training program included running 60 miles a week by mixing long runs, speed workouts, temp runs and recovery days. The team’s training included runs of more than 20 miles, peaking at 22, before tapering off weeks before the marathon.

“It’s tough to balance school, ROTC duties and running,” Cadet Kogge said. “Sometimes ... running has to take a back seat to other obligations.”

The team consisted of Kogge, Caitlin Diffley, Kelsi Matwick, Keri Matwick, Darren Manley, C. Scott Martin, Alexa Garot, Tabitha Rand and Michael Marchand.

The Matwicks are identical twins. Both crossed the finish line together in just over four hours. Being of equal ability, the twins took turns setting the pace.

“Keri led us strong in the beginning of the marathon, and I pulled us through to the finish,” her sister said.

The cadets said they used the race and other opportunities to raise money for the Arnold Air Society and a local relief organization.