Quantico, Va. –– After spending months training for the 35th Annual Marine Corps Marathon, Heidi Baise pulled a muscle in her back that could have kept her off the course.
While in the gym training at Quantico Marine Corps Base on Friday, Baise pulled a muscle while doing a pull up a slightly different way than she was used to doing them.
It hurt her back when she stood up straight, and the pain made somewhat difficult to move freely, she said.
She took a hot bath at home that night and, thankfully, woke up the next morning feeling fine.
On Sunday morning, she went on to run the 26.2-mile course that was the Marine Corps Marathon, finishing with a time of three hours, 26 minutes and 20 seconds.
She beat her targeted time by three minutes, and was also the first female from Virginia to finish the race in her age group, females 45 to 49.
Overall, Baise ranked 991 in the marathon. Not bad considering more than 30,000 people regularly register for the event.
“Seeing the soldiers and other physically challenged runners was so inspiring and motivating. They truly are the example of determination and commitment. The spectators and the ‘oorrahh’ of the Marines also gave me the push needed to focus on the goal and push through doubts and pain, and see myself cross the finish line within the three minutes and thirty second goal,” said Baise.
Though she sometimes can make running look easy, Baise said it was difficult at first to find a rhythm and to run at a comfortable pace.
She started out running too fast, so she slowed down, she said.
About halfway through the course, many people started to recognize her from being a personal trainer at the gym,and from the many years she spent working with the Marine Corps Marathon foundation, and then began cheering her on.
That’s when she found that running rhythm, and went on to the finish line, she said.
It was the first time in several months she’s run more than 14 miles.
Registration for next year’s Marine marathon will be held February 23. Baise plans to be there.
“I’m going to do this as long as I can,” she said.
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Join us on Friday, January 10, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m., with a special Ribbon Cutting at 2 p.m. Be inspired by keynote speaker Rita McClenny, President & CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation while enjoying a light reception featuring classic Fredericksburg favorites.
Location: 601 Caroline Street, 1st Floor, Fredericksburg
For event inquiries, contact: 540-372-1216 | [email protected]
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Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.
The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.
The Stafford location features state-of-the-art equipment, including strength machines, free weights, a dedicated area for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a functional training room with turf for agility exercises. Members can also access amenities such as fully equipped locker rooms with showers, a mobility and stretching space, and free WiFi.
A highlight of the facility is the Black Card Spa, available to those who pay for a higher membership tier. The spa includes Hydro Massage Loungers, massage chairs, recovery loungers, and salon-grade tanning beds, offering members an opportunity to relax and recover post-workout.
Called to Jail
A 44-year-old man found himself back at Rappahannock Regional Jail after making a false report and harassing a jail officer with obscene phone calls. Initially, deputies responded to a call about a death and gunshot outside the jail, which turned out to be false. The suspect, located at a local motel, was arrested and charged with using obscene language and filing a false report.
Assault
– Marion Manor Nursing Home: A staff member assaulted another during a disagreement. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and held without bond.
– Shasta Place: A male suspect bit the victim during a verbal altercation. He was charged with assault and battery but released on personal recognizance.
DUI
Deputies discovered a car in a ditch on Courthouse Road. The driver admitted to drinking beer, with three empty cans found in her vehicle. She was charged with DUI, drinking while driving, and refusal, and held on a $3,000 bond.
Hit and Run
A vehicle struck a VDOT sign and two unoccupied trucks at EZ Auto Sales before the driver fled. Deputies identified the suspect using evidence left in the vehicle, and warrants for hit and run and property destruction were issued.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions and inclement weather. Here is the latest list of updates:
Spotsylvania County Public Schools
Spotsylvania County Public Schools are closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions.
Code 2: 12-month employees report two hours late as safety permits.
Essential personnel will report at specified times.
All school-sponsored activities and student externships are canceled.
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King George County Public Schools
King George County Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to adverse road conditions and inclement weather.
Code 2: 12-month employees report at 10 a.m.
Liberal leave will be in effect.
We’ll update this post with additional school closures and delays as they are announced.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
