Following is the Columbia Track Club response to my query regarding who was Dave Schulte, and why the HOA Marathon chose to name an improved performance award in his honor. I feel honored and humbled to have won the award.
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Hi, Rick,
First, congratulations on a fine race. The weather conditions were pretty brutal. I've finished 11 HOAs and never had a real good weather day, but several were a lot better than what you had to endure. Good job!
Dave Schulte was one of the early members of the Columbia Track Club. He was married and had two sons. Dave would show up at every race that the club sponsored and he almost always finished last. But, he finished every race he entered. Dave developed a melanoma on his arm and died within 6 months of diagnosis. He fought it quietly and with great courage. When he died, his sons were 3 and 6 or so. It was a terrific jolt to all of us and we decided that the best way to honor Dave's memory was to establish the award that you won. It symbolizes Dave's tenacity and dedication to the sport.
Take good care and thanks for running the Heart.