Whitesville’s Travis Roby was one of about 29,000 runners to cross the finish line during Monday’s prestigious Boston Marathon. To Roby’s surprise, several community members sent him and his family north the only way they knew how: a parade.
During a quick drive through the county’s east side, it’s not unusual to see Roby running. Sometimes, he’s racing the time clock with a weedeater, and other times, he’s battling his stopwatch during a workout.
Roby owns TR Yard Care and is known around the community for his efficient trimming skills, sprinting from one tree to another and knocking out an entire yard in minutes. The 37-year-old didn’t start running for enjoyment until his mid-20s. While now he sources quality shoes, follows a nutrition plan, and maintains a training regimen, he said he began building the base for Boston with a weedeater in his hand.
“It feels good to finish, and it has been an amazing experience,” Roby said. “It’s been a gift from God that he allowed me to experience. I couldn’t believe I was finally there, and my family being right there at the finish line was awesome.”
Roby’s wife Susan planned the entire family trip, including stops at Fenway Park for a Red Sox game, a historic boat tour, a quick stop at the iconic Cheers bar, and the marathon with all of its festivities.
As a 37-year-old male, the qualifying mark is typically under 3:05:00. This year, an increase in competition brought that down to 2:58:00. Despite tackling over 900 feet of gain, Roby ran 2:57:00 in Louisville last fall to qualify. That’s a 6:45 mile pace sustained for 26.2 miles.
Roby’s parents-in-law Jamie and Peggie Clark organized the send-off parade from afar (Jamie was hospitalized in Lexington), rallying together what seemed like the entire community.
“I didn’t know what was going on,” Roby said. “I don’t handle that stuff very well because I don’t like attention. Even after struggling (Monday), people still followed me and sent me words of encouragement.”
Roby attended Mass in Boston on Sunday, where the priest’s homily was centered around the race.
“He started talking about the marathon and the human spirit and how powerful it can be,” he said. “After looking around and seeing the runners, it became clear how great the human spirit is.”
At mile 10 in Boston, Roby fell victim to abdominal pain, slowing him down significantly. Rather than dwell on the pain, he shifted his thoughts to a few of the community’s local heroes and how they’re fighting to overcome illness.
“I started thinking about everyone in Whitesville who is going through stuff right now,” he said. “There are a lot of people doing way more important things than anything I’m doing. Contemplating on that and all of the support I’ve received encouraged me to persevere.”
