Rounding the final bend of the 1995 Prospect, Connecticut 5 Mile Roadrace, Cheshire's Mark Groom appeared fatigued yet satisfied. He had accomplished his goal on this humid morning, finishing a half minute ahead of his closest rival. Some rivalries are renewed repeatedly over the course of many roadracing seasons. It takes time for an athlete to reach full potential in distance running.
Progress is measured over years and even decades.
In this extended process, runners gain a special respect for each other, knowing the dedication and persistence required to excel. A minute behind Mark Groom, Don Cavanaugh and Joe Stanley find another gear kicking toward the finish line. In the end, they are separated by 5 years in age, and about 10 seconds in time. This July morning it was Cavanaugh's turn. It is always just a matter of who wins.