Pig Works Ambassadors

Follow along with this diverse group of runners and walkers as they train for various Flying Pig, Queen Bee, FCC3, and Beer Series races this year. Let’s fly!

Amanda Klare

Amanda Klare

Amanda Klare has been a proud Flying Pig since 2009 when her Uncle Joe convinced her to run the half marathon and it has been her favorite race ever since. Amanda loves to share her love of running with her family, her Girls on the Run team she coaches and her 9:46 running group from TriState Running Company.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me at these races: Bockfest, FCC3 5k, Queen Bee, and NYC Marathon (if I get in the lottery) or Indy Monumental Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

On my plate for a post-race meal: After running I don’t typically want to eat right away, but I love a Coke.

My special race-day ritual: Get together with friends to celebrate the victory lap of another great training season with friends!

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: The Flying Pig is the pride of Cincinnati and our whole city will be out there cheering for you. Soak up every minute from the expo to the finish swine!

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Amanda Valentine

Amanda Valentine

What started as a great accomplishment of being able to walk a mile, then doing Couch 2 5k, turned into a life changing passion for health and wellness.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Heart Mini

Playing through my headphones: Eye of the Tiger

On my plate for a post-race meal: Steak & taters

My special race-day ritual: Stop and grab an iced coffee at the midway point of the half

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Be present in every moment and enjoy the journey

 

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Antonio Romano

Antonio Romano

Husband, Father, Runner. Running isn’t about speed, it’s about moving forward. A 6 hour marathon and a 3 hour marathon cover the same distance, we’re all just trying to beat ourselves.

Favorite race distance: 50K

Spot me at these races: Bear Lake Ultra

Playing through my headphones: One Thing Right - Marshmello

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pizza

My special race-day ritual: Just go out there and have fun.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Run the first half conservative and leave nothing left in the tank the second half.

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Aurelio Carrillo

Aurelio Carrillo

I’m originally from Peru, and this year marks the 10-year anniversary of living in the Cincy area. I love running and Flying Pig weekend is one of my favorites of the year!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: NYC Half, Chicago Marathon, Indy half, FCC3, Hyde Park blast

Playing through my headphones: A little mix of everything

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pizza

My special race-day ritual: Set everything out the night before.

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy your day out there. The crowd support will the awesome!

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Brian Harmon

Brian Harmon

Brian is a high school art teacher who began running after his son joined his elementary cross country team. When he's not running, you can find Brian competing in cosplay contests or working with the youth group at his church.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Hamilton Night Glow, Indy Monumental Marathon, Hudy 14k, Queen Bee

Playing through my headphones: Young and Aspiring by Underoath

On my plate for a post-race meal: Sofritas bowl from Chipotle

My special race-day ritual: I always use the bathroom right before entering the corrals even if I don't have to go.

Advice for future PigWorks participants: Enjoy the crowds. Cincy has some of the most supportive and talented race fans around.

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Bryan Smith

Bryan Smith

I just switched careers after a 20+ year stint in Higher Education. I currently work in HR as a corporate recruiter in the finance industry. Outside of running, I enjoy traveling, amusement parks (roller coasters), and any of the local breweries in Cincinnati.

Favorite race distance: 5K

Spot me at these races: Cyclones 5k, Bockfest, FCC3, Red Legs, and Honor Run

Playing through my headphones: Jump (remix) Van Halen

On my plate for a post-race meals: Skyline Coneys or Donatos Pizza

My special race-day ritual: Boiled egg + toast with Nutella and orange slices

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Start off slow and steady. Have fun but most importantly FINISH there’s a party waiting for you at the end!

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Carmen Sanders

Carmen Sanders

I use running as a tool for relaxation and the release of stress and to build new relationships. It is also a way to see the beauty throughout our City and other cities, in the United States.

Favorite race distance: 5K

Spot me at these races: The Race in Atlanta, GA; Publix Women's 5k in Savannah, GA; The Vibe 5k in July @ Paycor Stadium; 3:21 Down Syndrome 5k in March.

Playing through my headphones: I do not listen to music; I use the time to enjoy the beauty of nature and neighborhoods.

On my plate for a post-race meal: I enjoy pasta.

My special race-day ritual: I have a 'RACE WEEK RITUAL'. I focus on protein and carb loading that entire week. I stop eating salads, by Wednesday of race week. Water. Water. And, more water.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Respect. The. Run.

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Caroline Keating

Caroline Keating

Marathoner & Ultramarathoner, greyhound mom, community supporter, Flying Pig enthusiast, making a comeback from Heart Disease diagnosis.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: Whatever my heart (and cardiologist) will allow

Playing through my headphones: You had me at Heads Carolina by Ole Swindell

On my plate for a post-race meal: LaRosa's Pizza

My special race day ritual: Paint my nails to match my race day outfit

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy the crowd, let them carry you up the hills.

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Danielle Sharpstene

Danielle Sharpstene

I’m an occupational therapist who is traveling the U.S. by completing the 50 states half marathon journey.

Favorite race distance: The 5K

Spot me at these races: The Asheville Half Marathon, Flying Pig 3-Way Challenge, the Hudepohl 14k, and some local 5ks/10ks. Still trying to figure out the fall 2023 goal half marathon, but choosing between NJ, MS, and SC.

Playing through my headphones: Purple Lamborghini - Skrillex & Rick Ross

On my plate for a post-race meal: A big cheeseburger & fries

My special race-day ritual: Taking a moment to remember my “why.” Why do I do this? And recognizing the different reasons for being grateful for the opportunity to show up and experience race day.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Oh my gosh, have so much fun! Really take every minute out there to absorb the race course and race day atmosphere. There is nothing like the Flying Pig.

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David Whelan

David Whelan

I am a below knee amputee and Paratriathlete. I amputated my foot for the dream of running again. Now am chasing down my dream whole promoting movement as medicine. I aim to motivate and inspire others to show up with what you have and push yourself!

Favorite race distance: I love the long distance runs - half or full marathons.

Spot me at these races: I will be competing predominantly in USA Triathlon in the development and national races as well as aiming to represent the US internationally. I have 1 70.3 Iron Man. The Chicago marathon and 1 50 k

Playing through my headphones: I love listening to The Score or 21 Pilots

On my plate for a post-race meal: Some good protein, healthy carbs and fats.

My special race-day ritual: I love to focus on my breathing, strengthen my inner dialog. Work on visualizing my race and just enjoying the process and practicing gratitude.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: We do this for fun, enjoy it! Be where you are, run your race. Smile.

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Elisha Paratore

Elisha Paratore

I am a mom of two littles who loves to run for me. Running helps me to be the best me.

Favorite race distance:  Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Akron race series & Queen Bee Half

Playing through my headphones: Right hand man- Hamilton

On my plate for a post-race meal: Chocolate milk and then pizza

My special race-day ritual: I listen to somewhere over the rainbow in the start corral to help calm myself

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Train hills!

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Ellen Gorski

Ellen Gorski

My name is Ellen and I’m an east coast Cincinnati transplant - By day, I teach third graders, obsess about my dog and spend time with those important to me. I started running to take control of my mental health and I’ve never gone back!

Favorite race distance: I love training for marathons but I usually don’t love it so much around mile 23!! They are my strongest distance though!

Spot me at these races: Cyclones Frozen 10K, Bockfest 5K, Carmel Marathon, Queen Been Half Marathon, Hudy 14K

Playing through my headphones: Always T Swift

On my plate for a post-race meal: Greasy cheeseburger or chocolate chip pancakes!

My special race-day ritual: I probably drink more espresso than I should in the morning and feel much better when my outfit matches.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Separate the Eden Park hills into chunks (there’s 3 big ones). They are tough but so are you! After those hills (about mile 8), you can press on the gas!

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Erin Gratsch

Erin Gratsch

Erin in a Cincinnati native and her first marathon was the Flying Pig at age 31, 8 months after having her 3rd child. Since then she has completed 54 marathons including 9 Boston. 6 years ago, Erin was diagnosed with breast cancer and beat it until it came back in July 2022. Since then Erin has been going through chemotherapy. She completed the Queen Bee 1/2 during treatment and her goal is to complete the Flying Pig Half during treatment. On January 16, 2023, Erin will have DMX and latissimus dorsi reconstruction followed by radiation and continued chemo until September.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me at these races: Queen Bee and Hudy 14k

Playing through my headphones: Hey Ya!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Cheeseburger and a beer

My special race-day ritual: Coffee, lots of potty stops, and a pop tart

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Make sure you train your digestive system. You should take in 5-12 ounces of fluid every 15-20 minutes during your training runs

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Evelyn Guzman

Evelyn Guzman

My name is Evelyn, so excited this year to be doing the 4-way with extra cheese! I don't look like your typical runner and I'm not a fast runner. The important thing is that I am out and moving forward and crossing the finish swine with you!

Favorite race distance: 10K and Half Marathons

Spot me at these races: Queen Bee & TQL Beer Series

Playing through my headphones: P!NK & Black Eyed Peas

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pizza

My special race-day ritual: Epsom salt bath and dinner

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Take a pictures with Elvis, Caption America, "Jesus" , and all the other characters along the way.

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Gloria Ruiz

Gloria Ruiz

My name is Gloria and I love a good challenge. I have never ran in Ohio before so I can't wait to finally do it in 2023.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Berlin Marathon, New York Marathon and Marine Corps Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Till I Collapse Song by Eminem

On my plate for a post-race meal: A good slice of pizza or two

My special race-day ritual: Stretch Stretch Stretch

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Don't forget to have fun

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Jaclyn Hanson

Jaclyn Hanson

I am a working mom that just happened to fall in love with running and new adventures.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Carmel half marathon, Indy Mini Marathon the day before the flying pig!!!!, monumental marathon, hudepohl 14k looks fun, vacation races trail fest, plus many more!

Playing through my headphones: I have a long running playlist. Right now, it might be Good Ones by Charli XCX.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Anything I don’t usually eat. I like to reward myself!

My special race-day ritual: I usually have an hard-boiled egg, oatmeal, and coffee for breakfast.

Advice for future PigWorks participants: Have fun!

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Jenny Watson

Jenny Watson

I am a tourist with running shoes. I enjoy runcations with my family and my sole sisters. And of course, as a school counselor, I do keep my kiddos motivated with goals that tie in to running.

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: UA NYC 1/2 Marathon. Chicago Marathon. BDR 1/2 Marathon in Orlando. Gasparilla

Playing through my headphones: Uptown Funk

On my plate for a post-race meal: A great Burger with all the fixings, fresh cut fries, and a sweet tea. With lots of desserts.

My special race-day ritual: I have a light breakfast, kiss the hubby and then go meet random strangers who are racing with me!

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: If you have ever said “when pigs fly”, here is your chance to make it happen!!

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Joel Gil

Joel Gil

Chasing my dream to be happy all the time and running around the world.

Favorite race distance: Either Half Marathon or Full Marathon

Spot me at these races: NYC Marathon, Miami Marathon, Charleston Revel Marathon, Rockies Revel Marathon, Bold Bolster 10K, United Airline NYC half marathon, and many many others in all distances.

Playing through my headphones: I dont have any specific ones but I really like latin music, salsa, bachata and also I really do like the techno music. It is a mix of all that I had saved in my playlist.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Beer lol it is a joke, bananas and protein bars are my favorites

My special pre-race ritual: I need to warm up 30 minutes before any race and drink hydration products.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: I just would like for everyone to enjoy the race, does not matter the time, the effort to be here and the hours and hours of training are the only things that everyone needs to start and finish in stand up position. Forget the finish time, the pace, the speed the other runner, just smile and congratulate yourself because you are a champion you represent the 0.01% of human beings running a marathon, and also as simple as you awake in the morning and decide to spend a portion of your time to give at your body more energy in the future. Have fun in your journey but please don’t forget to smile.

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Kathleen Trubee

Kathleen Trubee

Hi! My name is Kathleen, I grew up in Cincinnati and have been participating in Pig Works events since 2009. I have been living with Type One Diabetes since I was 8 years old and hope to show the world T1D's can do anything in this world except make insulin.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon!

Spot me at these races: The Wine Glass Marathon is Upstate NY, JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes in Amelia Island, hoping to find a few more half marathons in new locations.

Playing through my headphones: Beyonce's Homecoming Live Album, it's my running anthem.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A bacon cheeseburger!

My special race-day ritual: Before any big race I have my hair French braided. Morning of I listen to pump up music while drinking my coffee.

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy every minute of the weekend, the city embraces this race like nonother!! Don't forget to smile, race day is the celebration of all your hard work.

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Kayla Prokop

Kayla Prokop

"You’re the busiest introvert I know!" -my good friend describing me. I’m a 30 year old with chronic illnesses that I don’t let stop me, instead I use them all as fuel to achieve all of my goals/dreams! I have A TON of ink (tattoos) and 3 of them actually have my grandparents ashes in them so they are always with me.

Favorite race distance: Full 26.2!

Spot me at these races: DC cherry blossom 10 miler & the Chicago marathon

Playing through my headphones: i can’t pick just one! I have a handful. Willing to share my Apple Music playlist :)

On my plate for a post-race meal: Chocolate chip pancakes

My special pre-race ritual: Pre race Reese’s cup!

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy it! It’s my favorite marathon to date. The whole weekend is a party. The crowd support is unmatched. Just have fun!

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Kelly Fisher

Kelly Fisher

I love living in the country and sharing miles with my dogs, Tito and Twix. Running has taught me so much about myself and shown me I am capable of so much more than I ever imagined

Favorite race distance: Half and full marathon

Spot me in these races: Americana 5K, Boilermaker 15K, Little Miami Half and a Fall Marathon TBT (Columbus or Indy)

Playing through my headphones: I prefer no music while running and instead use the time to reflect, visualize goals and let my mind wander.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A carnitas bowl from chipotle with guac and chips

My special race day ritual: I like to remind myself that race day is the celebration of all the hard work and training that led up to it. Race day is all about having fun!

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy every second and remember why you run. Remind yourself you can do hard things. My dad always says, “it’s from the neck up” meaning you can do anything you put your mind to. Have fun, smile and soak it all up and remember to celebrate your accomplishments!

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Kristy Harris

Kristy Harris

I’m an artist, chef, writer, and traveler who is devoted to health and fitness.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Carlsbad 5000

Playing through my headphones: Anything by Train!!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Eggs and mimosas!!

My special race-day ritual: Lots of sleep pre-race. Proper playlist on race day.

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Don’t go out too fast!

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Lori Leatherbee

Lori Leatherbee

Running has partnered with me throughout my life...discovering I am capable of doing more than I thought I could. I feel blessed to continue doing what I love, and sharing this joy with others! The running community is good company.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Donna Marathon, Gate River Run 15K, Boston Marathon, Route 66 10K or Hyde Park Blast

Playing through my headphones: Emotional Violins Rafael Krux

On my plate for a post-race meal: A chicken pasta dish

My special race day ritual: Quiet time to save energy, jog to get warmed up and relaxed

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Hi, I’m Lori, a Skyline 3 way challenge with extra cheese Flying Pig participant welcoming you to this positive experience you will never forget. Your adventure will extend from the organized piggy packet pick up, through the challenging course, enthusiastically crowd supported, and completing with the festive finish swine! Oink oink

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Lou Klein

Lou Klein

New York runner

Favorite race distance: The half - a nice day at the office The full is a great experience

Spot me at these races: Cherry Blossom 10m & Philadelphia Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Rearviewmirror Pearl Jam

On my plate for a post-race meal: Burger and beer

My special race-day ritual: I don’t tie my shoes until a few minutes before

Advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy the day

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Morgan Kurtz

Morgan Kurtz

On the pursuit of happiness and to running my first 26.2! Proud Cincinnati native working at Cincinnati Children's an exploring the city on foot.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Nashville St. Paddy's Half Marathon, Hudepohl 14k, Queen Bee Half Marathon, Young Life Gobble Gobble 5k

Playing through my headphones: The Man by Taylor Swift

On my plate for a post-race meal: Gatorade, a deli sandwich, potato chips, and a pickle!

My special race-day ritual: My running buddy / best friend and I ride to races together! She drives, I direct, and we listen to our girl power playlist.

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Take in everything! From the expo, to the fans, to the post-race celebrations - the positive energy is unlike anything I have experienced. I hope you cherish all the small moments that make the weekend what it is. Also, the Eden Park lookout is a great time to pause for a picture :)

 

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Nick Stewart

Nick Stewart

A 16-time marathoner from Charlotte, NC (the other Queen City) and Type I Diabetic of 24 years. A pediatric hospital chaplain, advocate for JDRF, and ambitious runner seeking to complete the World Marathon Majors.

My favorite race distance: Full marathon! Running 26.2 miles requires a lot of mental fortitude and adapting to the unexpected. It shows me what I’m truly capable of doing!

Spot me in these races: Tokyo Marathon, Tunnel Marathon (WA), Chicago Marathon, New York City Marathon

Playing through my headphones: After several years living in Charlottesville, VA, there is a LOT of Dave Matthews on my playlist.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Typically a burger, but after Flying Pig, it has to be a 3-way chili!

My special race-day ritual: I always have a pre-race, early race, and mid-race banana. Odds are, you’ll see me on the course carrying one!

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: The course will challenge you. The people will change you. Enjoy every minute of this race, the beautiful city, and these incredible people!

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Nikki Gilland

Nikki Gilland

Nikki is a content creator, travel enthusiast, and director of the Bluegrass Runners Thoroughbred Classic 5K. When she's not out for a run, you can usually find her organizing soccer watch parties or keeping up her Duolingo streak.

Favorite race distance: 5K, because I can find one to run almost any weekend of the year!

Spot me at these races: Lucky Leprechaun Half Marathon (Versailles, KY); Survive the Night Triathlon Relay (Lexington, KY); FCC3 (Cincinnati, OH); Queen Bee Half Marathon (Cincinnati, OH)

Playing through my headphones: Parabola by Tool

On my plate for a post-race meal: French toast with LOTS of fruit and whipped cream.

My special race-day routine: I put out all my gear the night before, and set at least 3 alarms to make sure I'm up in time.

My advice for future PigWorks race participants:  Hang out with a pace group during the race! Having company during those late miles is crucial.

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Sarah Jelinek

Sarah Jelinek

I am so thrilled to be an ambassador for Pig Works! I never felt athletic growing up so my mission as an ambassador and trainer is to help spread the joy of movement and the belief that you can truly unlock your potential no matter what you’ve done in the past!

Favorite race distance: I love them all but I now have a special place in my heart for the full marathon.

Spot me at these races: Chicago Marathon and Detroit Free Press Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen

On my plate for a post-race meal: Hamburger and beer (I oddly crave salad with ranch too!)

My special race-day ritual: Pizza dinner the night before and arriving way too early at the race site to calm my nerves!

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy the training process! Training is hard work but you will discover so much about yourself and realize just how much you can achieve if you do things that seem a little scary and outside your comfort zone!

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Tom Ratterman

Tom Ratterman

I've been married to my wife, Jennifer for nearly 24 years. I am a Special Education Teacher at Dayton HS.

Favorite race distance: 10K or Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: FCA 5K, Honor Run Half Marathon, I am always looking for new races to participate in.

Playing through my headphones: Most of the time I do not listen music while running. I like to take in the sights and sounds.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pizza or Chicken Wings

My special race-day ritual: I always eat a Honeystinger waffle and drink a bottle of Hoist about 30 minutes before any race.

My advice for future PigWorks race participants: Enjoy the experience. Work hard, be humble, and have fun!

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Tricia Fowlin

Tricia Fowlin

My names Tricia Fowlin I’m new to Cincinnati coming from the other Queen City Charlotte, North Carolina. I’m the studio owner for Rockbox Fitness Montgomery Rd. I enjoy working out and combining my two passions of running and boxing. I can’t wait to see everyone on the starting line!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Chicago marathon!

Playing through my headphones: Anything by Taylor Swift!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Wings! Still searching for the best ones in Cincy, any suggestions?

My special pre-race ritual: Pee as many times before starting line 😂

My advice for future PigWorks participants: Relax and have fun! Flying pig is so magical, take it all in.

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