Liberty Warrior wins AF Marathon

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Connor Estes
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  A Liberty Warrior went head-to-head with 10,000 runners during the 2009 Air Force Marathon on Sept. 19 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

2nd Lt. Kate Papenberg, of the 48th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, came in first place for the Women's full marathon category finishing the 26.2-mile run in 3 hours 8 minutes and 55 seconds.

Due to the grueling nature of the marathon, Lieutenant Papenberg was unaware of her position in the race.

"The race was challenging, and I could not tell I was winning," said Lieutenant Papenberg.

She trained thoroughly for the race, but the wear and tear of the 26-mile run took its toll.

"Honestly, I was disappointed in my time and just wanted to be finished," she said. "Winning was bittersweet."

Lieutenant Papenberg prepared for the marathon with an 18-week training program that included weight training, hill workouts, speed running and other exercises. She also competed in a few road races in the local area.

Because of the mild climate conditions at RAF Lakenheath, running in the Air Force Marathon was an easy choice for her.

"I decided to compete in the Air Force Marathon because the race was held in the middle of September, and training in England is really ideal through the summer months," said Lieutenant Papenberg.

Lieutenant Papenberg's hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed.

"We're very proud of her accomplishment," said Capt. Joshua Wennrich, 48th AMXS 494th Aircraft Maintenance Unit officer in charge. "Being a fellow runner, I'm jealous of and admire her amazing ability to run long distances in a short amount of time.

"I think it's great how she has represented our unit and base. She has the drive and determination to do what it takes to get the mission done. She is setting the example of fitness for the Air Force."

The Air Force Marathon isn't the end for Lieutenant Papenberg though. She plans to continue seeking out new challenges.

"I would like to compete in as many different marathons as I can," she said. "I plan to train for the Marine Corps, the New York City or Philadelphia marathons."