Orly, as I call him, is one of my favorite people. He has a big laugh, a big personality and a penchant for doing big races. He has completed six, 100-milers -- three with his lovely wife, Kathy. Yours truly tried to get him through his first Rocky Raccoon 100. That is a story in itself. His big accomplishment was finishing the beast known as Cactus Rose 100 in October. He was properly trained and was determined to get that buckle.

The high school science teacher by day loves food, metal and flashing disco lights. He even brought one for us to brighten his first Rocky 100.

This episode may evolve into a regular segment where we talk about traveling to races and other stories. This one has a lot of energy.

Photo: Orly sitting briefly at an aid station in the middle of the night at Brazos Bend a few years back. I was pacing him and sneaked this photo. It is his favorite.