Dallas Beckstead

What a shock!  I remember the Ham Radio in your father's basement, and how you really wanted me to become a Ham like you.  I just couldn't get the code down....however you would be pleased to know that I did go on to become an Extra Class.  The Vespa scooter that you used to use as a trail bike: Who knew how that happened.

Your favorite phrase....Olympus High, home of the Boss Green and Groovy Grey.

Rest in Peace my dear friend.

Dallas

Lars Erickson

Rainer, you were an amazing quarter miler and good buddy.  I remember unsuccessfully chasing you and switching to the half mile instead.  I also remember that after winning most of your races, you'd go find a bush and barf your guts out.  Undoubtedly it was mostly due to the effort you always put into the race, but you once admitted to me that you probably wouldn't have that problem if you stopped smoking. How great would you have been???  Miss you!

John Carman

Had the same experience Lars - in 9th grade.  I ran the 880, Rainer ran the 440. At one meet, Rainer had just won his 440 heat, by many yards, and we didn't have a starter for the next 880 heat.  The coach put Rainer in even though he had just finished (and won) a 440. At the 440 mark, Rainer had nearly tied his 440 record and was still going strong. The audience was cheering!  By the last lap, however, he started struggling and even stumbling, and others nearly caught up. He won it just the same. I learned that day that my natural abilities didn't include competitive speed or distance running. Rainer was a machine on the track - sorry to hear that he has left us.