Welcome to the JABs!!!

First off, welcome to Abe’s Army! Some of you may have participated in the past, for others, this will be a bold new adventure. Whatever your experience level, we, as your leaders, will do our best to make this a great summer of running.

Introductions are in order — we are a team of three leaders — Joni Stahlman, Anne Baker, and Barry House — the JABs.

Leader Profiles —

Joni Stahlman:  I started running in 2006 after saying all my life that I would never be a runner. I was desperate after gaining weight when a person suggested I join Abe’s Army. I talked a friend into joining with me for support and completed my first 10K in 1:10:47.   My first real running accomplishment was when I actually ran a full 30 minutes without stopping; I was so excited I cried.  My last running accomplishment was running my first marathon in Chicago last October.  I always say running saved my life — at least it was a great start for change and I am grateful. As long as my legs will carry me I will be a runner.   I look forward to assisting you achieve whatever your running goals might be. You can do it. Joni

Anne Baker: I started in Abe’s Army back in 2004 as a recruit. I had just kicked a 15-year smoking habit and needed something to distract me. Back then, Abe’s Army was held out at FitClub South and the first night they made us run around a little bike path. It was hot and I thought they would have to carry me out on a stretcher. The healthy culture embodied by Abe’s Army and the Springfield Running Club is now an ingrained part of my lifestyle, and my interests have expanded to multisport. Now at the ripe old age of 48, I compete in short course triathlons. I’m not fast, but it’s all about getting to the finish line! Last summer I trained with Joni for the Chicago Marathon!!!  I am looking forward to working with each and every one of your this summer! — Anne

Barry House:  I was an on-and-off runner back in the late 70s-early 80s. I’d run for a few months, quit for a few months, and repeat. Then I got married, had kids, and quit until I learned I had diabetes at the age of 44. I started walking daily and that turned into running daily, up until I injured myself. Finally, I joined Abe’s Army in 2005 and learned how to train the smart way. I ran my first Abe’s Amble that year and have since run every distance up to and including a marathon. This is my third time as an Abe’s leader and I’m looking forward to helping everyone reach their goal.

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