The Georgia Jewel
Some of Our Friends
The magic of the ultra-running community has always been our ability to unite and inspire one another to do extraordinary things. In 2016, when we took over the Jewel, we knew nothing about race directing except that we wanted a weekend inviting others to experience something we loved with people we love. And fortunately for us, that's what it's become. Below are just a few faces we're honored to call friends.
The Jewel Crew
Tom Bard
Tom was voted most likely to open a Highland Pub where kilts are required for entry. Despite his love of Florida Gator football, he’s a beloved Jewel crew member. Tom is the friend who says 'yes' to anything and makes everything better. He’s a Jewel legend—once making a two-mile trek out of the rock garden with a dislocated hip and broken femur.
Gregory Byerline
Gregory is the creative mind behind the Moon Shine Runners Society and the wise sage of the crew. He and his wife know magical parenting secrets that turn out brilliant and kind kids, and his love of dogs (especially his Clementine) knows no bounds. He’s always around to listen, offer the best counsel, and make every human feel seen and valued.
Lauren Goderwis
Lauren has been a part of Team Baker as long as our kids have. She loves animals, people, and great beer. She’s also the friend who, with no prep time, puts on a hydration vest, packs a few snacks, and gets dropped off at Stover aid station in the pouring rain to help a friend make it to the finish line. She loves big.
Nick Kovar
Nick is a mortgage guru, a loving husband, and an awesome dad. He’s the voice behind the mic and the energy behind the Jewel’s Facebook group. Nick is THE best brand ambassador, Co-Co race director, and the person who gets willed the Jewel if Team Baker ever gets lost running in the woods. Without his passion and energy, the race wouldn’t be possible. But please, never feed him black olives—he’ll melt and turn into acid that’ll eat a giant hole in the earth.
Jessie Sparks
Jessie has been part of the Jewel crew since Team Baker took over in 2016. She’s braved driving into the Stover aid station under a pitch-black Georgia sky, managed food calculations, and run packet pickup...all at once. Jessie has the sharpest operations mind, is decisive, and a trusted thought partner for all things Jewel.