I was running in the 1988 Women’s Olympic Trials Marathon in Pittsburgh and was about ready to drop out because I was still weak from having been sick prior to the race. At around the 15-mile mark, I heard a big WAR EAGLE, and I looked up and saw a couple who had obviously seen my name and hometown in the paper. I wish I could have seen the smile on my face! There was only time for me to yell WAR EAGLE back, but I perked up and went on to accomplish my goal of finishing in the top 50 (31st) and ran my second fastest marathon time. All because of two words.
Kim

So I’m running in the Scarecrow Scamper 5K in St. Charles, IL over the weekend - I graduated in 1992 and have not kept up the physique I had in college - and I’m getting close to the end, about to make my last big push to the finish line. I come lumbering down the hill and make the final turn into Pottawatomie Park right on the Fox River. I have less than 200 yards to go, and I start to feel my legs getting really heavy. Just then I see a lady walking her dog toward me and talking to someone on her cell phone. As I get closer, I also notice she’s wearing an Auburn Football T-shirt. Right as I pass her I shout a big “WAR EAGLE!” not knowing whether she could hear me over her phone conversation. I’m about 20 yards past when I hear her response: “WAR EAGLE!! WAR EAGLE!!” - I had no problems motoring to the finish line after that.
War Eagle!
David