LRS Amazing Race Published June 9, 2009 By Master Sgt. Bill Gomez 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Nice weather and clear May skies at Spangdahlem Air Base made favorable conditions for Airmen of the 52nd Logistics Readiness Squadron to enjoy their unit's Amazing Race May 29, 2009. The 52nd LRS Amazing Race, styled after the popular TV show, was organized and sponsored by the LRS Spouses Support Group. The race was open to senior airmen and below within the squadron as a morale booster and to create a fun, healthy activity that doesn't involve alcohol. Eight two-man teams and 16 volunteers participated in the race, which included seven different stations around the base. Clues at each station led teams to the next destination or directed them to perform a task, either as a team or by a single member. The teams were challenged with physical activities, deciphering clues, mathematical problems, cracking riddles and solving puzzles. Between stations the racers sprinted or peddled their bikes, all-in-all covering 4.5 miles. The race came to an end at a company-grade-officer organized 52nd LRS barbeque to feed the tired participants, as well as other 52nd LRS members, guests and family. "I enjoyed the physical challenge and getting a chance to socialize with other Airmen in our squadron who we don't normally get to hang with," said Senior Airman Eric Jackson. Airman Jackson, a 52nd LRS material management journeyman, and his teammate, Airman First Class Jillian Jakes, were the winners of this event. Each was awarded a $50 Army and Air Force Exchange Service certificate. Second place winners received a $25 AAFES certificate. Best Teamwork award winners also received an AAFES $25 certificate. On top of that, 52nd LRS Commander Lt. Col. Karen Stoff donated a 30-minute aqua massage to all participants. "I think it went really well. All the participants had a great time", said Chanel Beebe, the spouses group primary organizer of the Amazing Race. "It really showed great teamwork. It was a fun, non-alcoholic event that was aimed at building morale. The LRS Spouses Support Group wanted to show they care for the Airmen and want them to have fun." The spouses group plans to make this an annual event for the squadron.