Oh, What a ride! For Harrison at the Piecewalk 5k

The Landrunners' "Oh, What a ride!", a community project designed to give memorable athletic experiences to individuals who currently possess physical challenges, made Harrison Howell a happy young man. 10 year old Harrison participated in the Piecewalk 5k riding in The Landrunners’ modified racing wheelchair.

"As the sensor alarmed announcing their time, Harrison giggled and threw up his fist shouting 30 minutes 24 seconds; just numbers to most that passed by, but a time that will live on with Harrison forever."

30 minutes 24 Seconds

By: Duane Howell

Since birth our son Harrison has never been able to communicate his exact needs to us. Through trial and error as well as 10 years practice, my wife and I have been able to master the groans, body percussion and medley of song choices he uses as words. But, there has been one thing that he has shown a deep love for. Early on in his young life, Harrison has found his joy in rides….roller coasters, motorcycles, scooters and anything that goes fast. So when the opportunity arouse to allow Harrison to be involved in the “Oh, what a ride” program, we could not have been more pleased.

The morning of the Oklahoma City “Piecewalk and 5k,” the phrase “go super-duper fast” was echoing through our home. The infamous Harrison smile took over his face on our drive to Bricktown and when we saw Kevin Lynes waiting with his ride, I was waved bye to as Harrison’s way of saying he was ready.

Watching the runners cross the finish-line my wife and I stood peering through the bodies to be greeted by his smile once more. His clapping and infectious laugh could be heard amongst the entire crowd.  As the sensor alarmed announcing their time, Harrison giggled and threw up his fist shouting 30 minutes 24 seconds; just numbers to most that passed by, but a time that will live on with Harrison forever.

I want to give a huge thank you to the “Landrunners” for allowing Harrison and our family to share a moment we will never forget.