NINETEEN
On Sunday, Oct 6th, 2019, I turned 1 Ultra, 4 Full marathons, 11 half marathons, and 19 medals old. By 2020 maybe I will turn 20. I am never going to be an elite runner or break any records, but as the year winds down, I feel thankful for making room for running in my life.
It was the Rock N Roll half marathon this past weekend. I hadn’t prepared as much as one should, but the distance was familiar. And familiarity counts for a lot when you are out there counting the miles! Besides, my husband and kids had gone camping without me; I had no choice but to finish. I had to make it count.
It is always so inspiring to be out there running with thousands of other athletes. The energy permeates you and carries you. I saw an older man whose bib read 100th half marathon, a mother pulling a buggy attached to her waist with a happy toddler in it, residents on the route giving away donuts and cheers, high school bands playing, and so much more. That’s what makes these runs special; being witness to so many personal victories. Everyone is focussed on bringing out the best in themselves and others, pulling up and cheering one another.
There was another incident that highlighted the runners’ spirit for me that day. Before the run began, someone began to sing the national anthem. Midway, he faltered and paused. The crowd started to clap and cheer him. They sang along, and everyone finished together.