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ZSR Zephyrs 2011: Erik Mitchell (doing his farewell tour), Gretchen Edwards (bringing a new generation of spirit to the team), Rebecca Petersen (a new speed rival to Erik), Susan Smith (oldest Zephyr around), Mary Beth Lock (major cheerleader and team Pollyanna about our weekly chances at winning), and Barry Davis (sport photographer and voted most willing to do anything but swim)

ZSR Library once again fielded a team for Campus Recreation’s annual Staff Summer Olympics, this year called the “Biggest Winner Summer Challenge.” The library has had a team in the 8 week-long event since its inception in 2003 (minus the lost year 2007, that’s another story). The format has changed over time, as have the team members. Only two original members remain: Erik and Susan! And for you curious readers, here is the Gaz article from the first year we competed (when we won the cup!)

As always, there is an activity component where, this year, each individual could earn up to 5 points daily for doing cardio, strength or by taking CR classes. New this year was a weight/fat loss angle that was accompanied by 2 nutrition lectures (don’t ask how we all did on that one!). That left 6 weeks of Wednesday athletic competitions that included old favorites such as bowling, water polo, quadrathlon, Frisbee golf and table tennis. The last day is always a mystery field day. This year Erik did a backward run then paired up with Susan for the wheelbarrow portion. Gretchen had to put on a vest, backpack and helmet to sprint to where she exchanged the gear Mary Beth who then bicycled back to the start line. Our pictures demonstrate that the Olympics remain a great deal of fun and a wonderful way to get to know colleagues better across campus!

This is Erik’s last showing as a Zephyr and he managed to go out in a blaze of glory winning the overall individual award for most exercise points earned over the 8 weeks. Is anyone surprised?