in">As the sisters traversed the scenic course, beginning at 6:30 a.m. near the Memorial, their focus on the ultimate cause was occasionally interrupted by the aches and pains that can often accompany distance running.
Because of the heat, both sisters suffered from dehydration, and Mayes was slowed by a sore knee that had bothered her over the weeks leading up to the race. It took some additional encouragement from little sister Jill to help generate a happy ending.
"I was struggling pretty good because (my knee) was really hurting me the last couple of miles," said Mayes, who pointed to the fact her sister stayed by her side, yelling encouragement, as one of the reasons she kept going.
It was tough love, but it worked.
"There was no way I wasn't going to finish that race, and Jill stuck with me every step," Mayes said.
"It was pretty emotional to finish the race together," said Mayes-Schanuel, flashing a smile at her big sister. "It's been great doing this together, working toward our goal and ultimately completing it for a memorable cause."
OFF TO THE RACES
Cinco de Mayo Clean Air Challenge (5K/Fun Run)
Friday, May 1
Tulsa
Body Vs. Earth Triathlon
Saturday, May 2
Lake Elmer Thomas, Fort Sill
Health for Friends (5K)
Saturday, May 2
317 E. Himes Street, Norman
5th Annual Jim Thorpe Courage Run (5K)
Saturday, May 2
Southwest 104th & Penn, OKC
Amy Eskue Memorial Run (5K/10K)
Saturday, May 2
Okeene Community Center
Join Hands Day (5K)
Saturday, May 2
Cashion
Bricktown Blaze (5K)
Saturday, May 2
Bricktown
Family Promise Run (5K/FUN RUN)
Sunday, May 3
Shawnee
St. Joe's 5K Run and Fun Run
Friday, May 8
Muskogee
Clean Air Challenge (5K)
Saturday, May 9
Oklahoma City Zoo
Ready