Sep 08 2008
Giving it your all
Saturday was the local Maple Leaf Half-Marathon in my community. Over 300 people came out in the pouring rain, courtesy of the remnants of Hurricane Hanna, to test their resolve and attempt to reach their goals.
Some were exuberant as they crossed the finish line, thrilled that they exceeded their expectations. Others came hobbling through, humbled by the hills, the weather, or the miles. A number of people told me they want to participate in this race again next year, to challenge themselves to the distance or to prove to themselves that they really CAN conquer the hills in southwestern Vermont.
Here’s what I love about this event: you can’t wake up one morning and decide “Hey, I think I’ll run a half-marathon today.” 13.1 miles is something you have to work toward. We have to utilize long-term planning skills to outline a training program, and short-term skills to make sure that we stick to that program when life gets in the way (sick kids, sore feet, hectic work schedule, visiting relatives, bad weather; what other obstacles can you add?).
Congratulations to everyone who finished the Maple Leaf Half-Marathon. If you can reach your goal of running 13.1 miles, then you of course can set - and meet - whatever other goals you have in your life. You didn’t let the rain or the hills stop you. What’s next on your agenda?