MAA honors local athletes

By By Jeff Byrd/staff writer
Jan. 13, 2002
For the second straight year, Meridian's Mike Thrailkill was named the Meridian Athletic Association's Overall Athlete of the Year. Thrailkill was joined by first-time winner Frannie Childs as the Female Athlete of the Year here at the MAA's annual banquet Saturday night at the Mississippi State-Meridian's Auditorium.
Thrailkill says being in the MAA has helped sharpen his competitive fire.
I love the competition and meeting people," said the 37-year-old Thrailkill. He has been running competively since high school. He totaled 167 points off a point-system based on performances in competitions involving running, cycling, dualthon and triathlons.
Childs, who won the female group by compiling a whopping 221 points, says she enjoys the competition.
MAA President Rich Hajek says the club promotes an encouraging attitude.
Winning the Junior Athletes of the Year were Ellis Eifert and Cora Eifert.
The Master winners were Jay Vining and Wanda Kelly.
The Grand Master winners were Jim Quick and Georgia Carol Walker.
The Senior Master award went to 70-year-old competitor Jerry Parker.
The club also acknowledge their Walkers of the Year in Curtis Fancher and Libby Eifert.
Before the awards were received, members heard guest presentations from Dr. Sonny Rush, Dan Donnelly, and Karla Bailey.