Friendly Encounters

This is another in a series of meetings of my friends and celebs.

I met Ross Forman while working on an online piece on TNA wrestling for Global Traveler magazine. Forman gave us access to the Bound For Glory event in 2008 and to a pre-event fan convention.
Forman is training for his 6th Chicago Marathon (which will be held on October 11). On Sept. 12, he competed in the Walter Payton Run, finishing 3rd in his age division. This event is a fund-raiser for the Walter Payton Cancer Fund. The distance is 19,726 yards (Payton's rushing total) or 9.5 miles.
Forman's effort was featured in a piece on WrestlingFigs.com. Forman also has a blog, Ross:Running a Marathon, detailing his quest for the Chicago Marathon.

Johngy's Beat, Global Traveler and all of the readers wish Forman luck in his bid for a personal best in the Marathon. I know the effort involved and I'll keep good thoughts all Sunday. Forman met Walter Payton several times over the years. At the recent Walter Payton Run, he had the opportunity to meet Payton's widow Connie. That brings us to our Friendly Encounters Payton Doubleheader today.

Ross Forman and Walter Payton in IL-late 70's.

Ross Forman and Connie Payton in Arlington Heights, IL-September 2009.