1) A half marathon might not seem like a big deal to some (especially those who run fulls often) but for me it was a major deal. Two years ago this summer I had a bulging disc and was told not to do anything but low aerobic activities that October. That didn't sit well with me so I had to work hard to get to where I could run. So, when I stepped up to the start line- it was the culmination of a lot of hard work and determination.
2. The little things mean a lot- the cheer from a random stranger, the high five from the policeman along the route helping to direct traffic, seeing a friend cheering for you, and seeing the reminder (on a shirt) of Philippians 4:13 several times throughout the race.
3. The Determination of others- the race started with hand cyclists and then in my corral were several older gentlemen who were carrying American flags. And then there was the Marine running with full gear and to top it off a 91 year old gentleman who ran the half marathon. They never quit, never gave up, and took their run seriously- the journey that they took to get there must have been amazing and I can't help but think they have found joy in that journey.
4. Music- I had a post last week about music motivation. I was back and forth about whether I wanted my headphones- I decided to wear them (but took them out for the trip into Neyland Stadium). The music was perfect- whenever I wanted to walk a little more- one of those songs would come on and remind me just how much of a gift I have been given. I am running, not just for myself, but for those who can't run- gives me some things to ponder about the direction I want to take this. It just truly made me grateful for the life I have been given.
**and since this is so long I'll be breaking this up into 3 posts :) (all pictures are from pinterest)
12 comments:
Hey! Runner's World had an online article about that 91 year old man! He set a 1/2 marathon record in the 90-95 age group. I didn't even know there was a 90-95 age group :)
This is how I felt about my half too... it was a big deal! I find that in the real world, it is, in fact, a big deal. It's just in the online runner's world that it is "just" a half!
I am glad you are thinking of sticking with the halfs. Purely because we can be half-sisters :) (VERY bad pun!)
FJ- I saw that- just amazing :) His story is actually pretty cool- there was a little blurb about him in the local paper. And it is a big deal- I have had several people tell me that I have inspired them to want to run and to make changes just since Monday- THAT has blown me away. :) And I am looking at another one- but not until October!
Look forward to the other two installments. As for this one, that first point is key. I even liked the picture and what it said. :)
Dad- The first step is always the hardest- and often, the most meaningful. Part 2 is ready to go and part 3 is almost there!
I remember so well stepping up to the start line of my first half marathon. I was 58 years old and doing it for my daughter! It was a huge deal for me, and now I enjoy every race and look forward to what I can put on my calendar next! Running is wonderful for any age and that 91 year old man is a true inspiration!
Love this! A half is a BIG deal! I'm looking forward to Part 2 :)
The little things really do mean a lot especially during a race. It's the minor details that always stand out to me lately.
couldn't agree more about the little things from others or the determination of other runners...always make me smile and want to keep going :)
WRD- thank you for your comment and how awesome to be doing it for your daughter! Keep up the good work!
Jill- thank you! I had someone say "it's just a half" and my heart sunk- she immediately apologized. I know I wasn't fast but I did my best.
Suz and Caitlin- yes! The little things mean a LOT!
SO PROUD OF YOU!!!! CONGRATS!!
I love everything you posted. It's all the little things that go into a race that make it so special - that make running so special! I'm glad you're taking time to reflect on them. We should do that more often.
Congrats again!!
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