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(SOLE)MATES (continued...)
 

Of the AIR running couples, the Vighs might be the most accomplished. David is one of Amelia’s top male runners, and in large Jacksonville events, routinely finishes among the top competitors in the ultra-tough 35-39 age group. In the 2005 Gate River Run, he polished off a 55:51. That’s less than six minutes per mile for 9.3 miles.  He has also completed 12 marathons. And David doesn’t just finish them, he flirts with sub-three hours routinely.

    And Tina, although she professes a non-competitive nature, is one of the top female runners on Amelia. Her workout routine has her near 40 miles per week. While speaking for this story — only two days after completing her eighth marathon — Tina had warmed up for the interview by running her usual seven miles.

   As a couple, they have combined for 20 marathons, and estimate they average 35 miles combined on their long Sunday runs. “No partying on Saturday nights,” they say.
    So, we’ve got Tina and David who met at a race, fell in love during training runs, and got engaged at a race. There wasn’t going to be a WALK down any aisle for this couple.
    The Vighs don’t walk.

Sweet repeat
    For the engaged pair it was back to the 2001 Tampa Hops Marathon to make the union official. They invited the whole crew to join them for a post-marathon wedding. Steve, Lisa, and family members were invited to the finish line ceremony.

    Of course the blushing bride ran in the race, as did the groom, best man Steve and maid of honor Lisa. David’s brother Rob, an attorney and notary, presided over the ceremony.      

   “It was a real emotional day…a marathon, a wedding, the family and friends all there,” David said. “But, we both felt like we didn’t want to do it any other way.”
    The unique wedding was held about 100 yards from the finish line in a park with Tina, David, Lisa and Steve in running shorts, and others in more formal attire. Actually, the best man almost didn’t make it. Steve had struggled through the race and required EMS assistance and IV’s after the marathon.
    “We’re getting ready to get married and there was Steve sitting in the ambulance about 50 yards from us,” David said. “I went over to the guy giving him the IV and said, ‘Dude, I’m getting married over there, and I need this guy just for 10 minutes to stand next to me.” Steve staggered over, made it through the ceremony and the reception.
    And David and Tina finished one race, but began a lifetime event.


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