The One Minute Gun! “Bearing Away...Or Not...” 11/16/11

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:28:27 -0500

I remember my first experience watching a boat race in Marietta, Ohio. What a great opportunity it was to watch top level competitors I had never before seen compete.

At this race I was watching two “southern boys,” both top level competitors in the SST 120 class, competing on the back stretch. The one trying to pass obviously had top end on the leader.

As they headed down the back stretch it looked pretty clear that the passing boat was being introduced to areas on the course not normally traversed as he was pushed out when he tried a pass. Now, it is hard to call “bearing away” from the shoreline where you do NOT have a good angle to make such a call…BUT…

Was it bearing away or not? Tough call for all involved. Many an argument of calls made or not made have I had the “privilege(?)” to listen to during a race weekend.

Life is filled with tough calls that have to be made. Often there are numerous perspectives from which to view life circumstances. That is why it is so important for all involved to value wisdom and sound judgement. This goes for drivers, owners, crew, spectators and officials. Healthy perspective is of great value.

At the end of the day people are so much more important than trophies or titles. The greater good of the sport and the health of the series should be of great weight in making individual decisions.

I love the outstanding characteristic of the person of Jesus Christ who was willing to serve others and give His all for the good of a needy world. Service above self even in the midst of tough competition has its place.

“The Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

Father, what a privilege to be able to be involved in such a great sport as powerboat racing! Help us all to maintain perspective as we seek to compete aggressively and with skill. Allow us to maintain perspective as we do. May the servant spirit of Christ inspire us to seek the greater good. Amen.

ONE MINUTE GUN! “Sad Events!” 11/11/11

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:02:06 -0500

Wish we could all be together right now. As we learned the news of the deaths of Bob Morgan and Jeff Tillman Wednesday in Key West and saw the videos we mourned their loss. So many of you knew them. Many facebook entries have appeared expressing well wishes and prayers for the families and friends of these men. Our larger community of boat racing is stunned and saddened, but in the midst of this, the community is at it’s best…expressing their love and concern.

At times like these we remember that these men were doing what they loved. We remember that every mishap is studied and measures are taken to improve the saftey of our sport. We remember how every kind of racing overlaps and the ripples are felt throughout.

As people rally together, comfort is felt. So as we remember the families of these men in prayer, let us also pray for one another and thank God for the strength and comfort found in our friendships. God is our comfort and strength and very present help in time of need.

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.” 2 Corinthians 1:3

Father, we lift up the Morgan and Tillman families and the entire series in this time of loss. Give comfort and strength to face the days ahead. May each be very aware of your presence and love. Amen

LEGACY MINISTRY

The One Minute Gun! “Bearing Away...Or Not...” 11/16/11

ONE MINUTE GUN! “Sad Events!” 11/11/11