Thanks to you guys, with the post “Dismounted Dragoons”, I have reached my 400th post. Now I know that compared to most of you I am still a “newbie”, and I keep on learning with each post. I have enjoyed your projects, your fabulous hobby skills, your battle reports and your off topic posts as well.

Most of all I have enjoyed the community and the camaraderie. I have laughed with you, at you, and of course you have also laughed at me. I have also felt some of the pain that you have also shared. Together I believe our regular “chats” have helped us get through Covid-19 and all of the lock-downs.

I look forward to sharing the next 400 with you and hope you feel the same.

On the topic of 400 and with the Olympics just around the corner I am reminded of the British sprinter Derek Redmond.

29 years ago, British sprinter Derek Redmond and his father provided audiences with one of the most heart-wrenching moments in Olympic history. Redmond had qualified for the semifinal of the 400m at Barcelona with the fastest time in his heat. He was looking strong when suddenly he pulled up with a torn hamstring. Rather than crumble to the ground, Redmond continued hobbling toward the finish line. Surprisingly, he didn’t have to finish the race alone.

Redmond’s father, Jim, ran from the stands and brushed off security to join his son. With tears in both of their eyes, the Redmonds finished the race together.

May we continue our race as we hobble on together.

THANKS GUYS AND GALS