PROCTORVILLE -Antwuane Brown won his final race.

That was the overwhelming theme Tuesday night as hundreds of Brown's friends and family

packed the Fairland High School auditorium for a special service in his memory.

Local pastors spoke of their experiences with Brown and how he loved his family, friends, and most of all, God.

I recall seeing a similar side of Antwuane while on assignment at the Ohio Valley Conference track championship this past spring. After he broke the Fairland High School record for the 100-meter dash, I had the opportunity to get a couple of quotes from him about the win.

I remember Antwuane smiling and skipping back down the track with a high-step, almost like a collegiate band drum major. I followed him up the homestretch and took some photos as he was being congratulated by teammates and coaches.

When I finally caught up to him, I asked him to tell me about the race. Having never really talked to Antwuane before, what he had to say surprised me somewhat.

Many of today's athletes, especially the successful ones like Antwuane, often take all the glory, and credit for their achievements. Not Antwaune.

"I have to give all the credit to God, because without him I wouldn't be able to do any of this," Antwuane told me. "For everything He's done for me, I just have to give Him the thanks."

And while that surprised me,

it was refreshing to hear.

Pastor Jeff Black of First Baptist Church of Proctorville said that Antwuane had won his final race and was now in a much better place, and that Saturday was his celebration day.

I can't help but to think that if Antwuane is celebrating now like he did that night on the track, he must be all smiles once again during his victory lap.