I remember this event really well, and watching it on video now still makes me well up. It tells a story of determination, crushed hopes and dreams, and courage.  Whatever reason drove Derek to make it round, it inspires each of us.  Anyone that’s worked hard, trained hard and pushed hard for something can relate – even if you’ve never run a race in your life.  The struggle, the challenge is something everyone recognizes.  Of course, what makes it even more moving is his father chasing him down the track, first to tell him to stop, then to support him all the way.

“Well, if you are going to finish this race, we’ll finish it together.”