Community Team Member Highlight: Bob Garbett

Hometown: Richlands, NC

Occupation: Pastor and Criminal Justice Training Manager

Team Hope For The Warriors® Member Since: 2012

How Did You Hear About Hope For The Warriors®?

“The Run held at Camp Lejeune, NC in 2009”

What Made You Want To Join The Team?

“It was a way to honor the sacrifice our service members who have given so much.” 

What Races Did You Run Last Year?

“The Myrtle Beach Half Marathon, The Cherry Point Half, The Oak Island Lighthouse Half, the Run For the Warriors® Half, the Palmetto and Colonial 70 mile relays, the Neuse River Bridge Half and a few 5 K’s. One of those was the North Carolina Justice Academy Run Like You’re Guilty 5K, which was done to raise money for the Hope For the Warriors®.”

What Races Are On Your Calendar This Year?

“So far I’ve done the Myrtle Beach Marathon and the Gator Trail 50K. I’ve got a couple local 5K fundraisers, and the Oak Island Lighthouse Half Marathon, Run For the Warriors® Half, the Colonial 70 Relay and at least one more half and maybe a full in the fall.”

What Motivates You During Long Runs?

“I have some great friends who run with me and when I run alone, I just enjoy the gift of being out there – wherever that happens to be.”

Have You Always Been A Runner?

“I first started running while in the Marine Corps, then got slack. I had a heart attack in 2009 and thank God, there was no damage to my heart; however, it woke me up to get active again. I had signed up for the Hope For the Warriors® 5K that year. That was about 6 weeks after my heart attack and I had to walk it, but I did it.”

Do You Have Any Pre-Race Superstitions Or Rituals?

“Nah. I pray, before, during and after (especially the long runs).”

What Has Been Your Favorite Race You Have Ran? Why?

“I think my favorite would have to be the Colonial 70 mile relay. The camaraderie and the challenge of running as a apart of a team.”

What Is On Your Running Playlist Right Now?

“I’ve got everything from TobyMac and Mandissa to Boston and The Who, along with Nuttin’ But Stringz and some bagpipe music. It’s pretty diverse.”

Is There A Race That You Have On Your Dream Bucket List?

“I think the Marine Corps Marathon would have to be there.  Maybe one day.” 

What Has Been Your Favorite Thing About Being Part Of The Team?

“The support of the staff and others at the races.” 

What Would You Say To Encourage Your Teammates?

“I would just like to encourage everyone to keep setting goals and keep pushing for that next mile. Whether you run 1 mile fun runs, 5k’s or marathons, you’re still a runner – enjoy it.”