Racing Reminders

Rev. Matthew Best

Pastor Matthew Best was motivated by watching the movie, “Bend it Like Beckham” while living a few blocks from the US Capitol in 1998.  He started by running one block in 2003 and worked his way up to his first half marathon in October of that year in Atlantic City. Matthew has since run 57 races, including thirteen 5K runs, thirteen 10K runs, one 15K, 18 half marathons, and 11 full marathons. His favorite are half marathons.

Rev. Best feels accomplishment, especially in the face of adversity, when contemplating his collection. He recalls his first race in Atlantic City: the weather was horrible, a constant heavy downpour. The sea spray forced him to run most of the race with his eyes closed, but he still managed to finish the race just after 4 hours. Matthew also ran a race in Baltimore right after recovering from an injury. With several kilometers left in the race and not making good time, Rev. Best became determined to stay under 5 hours. He began to chant “4:59” like a mantra and finished at 4 hours, 58 minutes!

Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art is organized and toured by International Arts & Artists.