Eileen Rogers started the Buzz Marathon 19 years ago and is a prime example that one person with a good idea can make a big difference

The month of February is noted for hearts and flowers and candy, and in San Miguel, for Hornets.  The 19th annual Buzz Marathon will be held this year on February 16 on the beautiful course running through Camp Roberts.  Due to some construction the course has been redesigned. With help from Paul DiMatteo it has been recalibrated and recertified by USA Track and Field to maintain entrants’ eligibility for other races like the Boston Marathon.  

The Buzz Marathon began in 2000 as a way to raise funds for sports programs at Lillian Larsen School in San Miguel, California.  Eighth grade teacher and Athletic Director Eileen Rogers had personally funded an athletics program for some fifteen years.  In brainstorming ways to find an independent way to help the program become self-sustaining, the marathon seemed ideal. It started slowly but with much encouragement it grew. 

Since the Lillian Larsen Mascot is a Hornet, it was named the ‘Buzz Marathon’ and Eileen was dubbed the ‘Hornet Queen’, an appellation of which she is justly proud.  Year by year it became better and better until achieving its present status.

Although retired from teaching at San Miguel, Eileen keeps very busy, still greatly involved with sports. She firmly believes in exercising both mind and body.   

The course runs through San Miguel from the school to the Mission and back.  This success story certainly shows how one person with a good idea, determination and contagious enthusiasm can make a big difference!   

posted Friday January 25th