By Steve Virgen – Los Angeles Times
Ten years ago, Steven Robert ran in the OC Marathon to raise money for his 4-year-old son Jake, who had Cerebral Palsy. During the final portion of the race, Steven scooped up his son and carried him into the finish line.
Later that night, little Jake died in his sleep. But Jake’s legacy has lived on through Team Jake, a charity that raises money for children with special needs. Team Jake celebrated its 10th anniversary at the US Bank OC Marathon this past weekend.
The joyous and somber tears began to flow on Thursday night when Steve and his wife Alison were inducted into the inaugural OC Marathon Hall of Fame, also known as Making Waves Award recipients.
The Hall of Fame class also featured the late Bill Scarff, a strong supporter of the OC Marathon, and the event’s co-founder and original board chair Scott Baugh.
It was an emotional moment when Steve thanked many while receiving the honor Thursday night at the Newport Beach Marriott.
He stood with his wife, as they laughed about past memories and wiped away tears because of the loss of their son. They remain grateful to have touched many lives through Team Jake.
Bonner Paddock was one of those. And he’s also made a difference for many through the One Mission Foundation.