Oct. 6, 2005

COLUMBIA, Mo. --The Missouri gymnastics team took time out from their pre-season preparation to help support runners of the Columbia Half-Marathon Challenge on Sunday. The squad also formed three relay teams comprised of coaches, spouses, alumni and friends of the team to help benefit The Shelter in Columbia, a community based organization that helps victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

The team, who aided runners at two water stations and helped facilitate the two relay stations, felt the most rewarding part was encouraging the runners and helping them through the race.

"It was so much fun," said sophomore Ashley Khederian. "It's like what we do in the gym everyday, we support and help push each other."

The gymnastics squad is involved with various community service projects throughout the year, but Khederian said working the race was one of her favorites.

"I would want to do this even if we didn't do it as a team."