John Hanc: I have seen you sitting and watching many of the Sri Chinmoy races — both "Runners Are Smilers" and the ultras. Many of the people running are not followers of yours, but they all seem to be having a good time.
Sri Chinmoy: I am very happy with the way my spiritual students have created such a good atmosphere for these people and are inspiring them in the running world. As I said, the world is all one family. We are inviting our brothers and sisters to come to our races, and it gives us joy when they participate. Our 1,300-mile race is like a Thanksgiving Day celebration. Once a year the family comes together for Thanksgiving, and it gives us all such joy to see one another again.
Sri Chinmoy, Sri Chinmoy answers, part 29, Agni Press, 2001