New Bedford Couple Gets Engaged at Newport Marathon Finish Line
New Bedford's Ashley Vandiver from New Bedford got the surprise of her life yesterday as she was finishing up her first marathon.
As Ashley crossed the finish line at yesterday's Amica Newport Marathon, she was excited that her first 26.2 mile race was behind her. She hadn't caught her breath yet when she saw her boyfriend, Chris Holtkamp and his son standing at the finish line. His son was holding a sign that read, "Ashalay (sic), will you marry my dad?!" Ashley doubled over in disbelief.
Chris got on one knee and offered her a ring. Finally, after what must have seemed like forever to Chris, she nodded yes to his question. It would be a few more minutes before Ashley would be able to actually catch her breath.
She had been dating the marine for years after meeting him while working at the Greater New Bedford Career Center. The two had both grew up in New Bedford, and they currently live in the city. Ashley currently works as a training and development manager out of the MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center, while Chris is an employment counselor for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Ashley is also a former member of the Fun 107 Street Team.
We wish them both happiness as they start on their new journey together.