Friday, February 19, 2010

comment regarding Charity runners and Marathons

"Charity runners" are not lesser marathon citizens in the world of marathon. Sure we may not be pushing sub 3 hours, but we are doing "our first marathon", "our first half marathon" or our umpteenth marathon or half for a cause that is bigger than ourselves.

One of the things I loved (note the past tense) about road racing WAS the camaraderie and love of the sport. One of the things I dislike is those that diminish those that do not run sub 8's, 7's etc because it's not fast "enough"...

Imagine yourself - accomplishing more than you ever anticipated - to hear "charity runners diminish the sport." Liken that to...you trained really hard, but did you qualify for Boston, the Olympics....F No - they looked adversity in the face and did a hell of a lot more in their training, fundraising and networking than most do in a lifetime. Could one of the elites pull their butts off the couch after learning a loved one was diagnosed with a fatal disease or ailment - with no "hope" of recognition or monetary reward?

Folks who do this with a charity do it for the benefit of others and hope they do "some good"

Next time....kick me in the schnuts before you say anything derogatory about "charity runners" - it would be less painful however, even more out of line.

Every race can be a first....no race should be a defeat.

Friday, February 12, 2010

what an end to an amazing week Event # 32 - NOT

After leaving work at 2 AM Friday AM - and a long 7 hour rtek to Myrtle Beach for the half marathon, event # 32....with my sister Andrea and her boyfriend dave....arriving at 10:40 PM...no chance of ever getting my race packet - but still determined to do the race....I see this

Media Advisory
To: Myrtle Beach Media
From: Mark Kruea, Public Information Officer
Date: February 12, 2010
Re: Marathon update
We regret to report that the BI-LO Myrtle Beach Marathon has been cancelled for
tomorrow, Saturday, February 13.
The city staff has monitored weather conditions and
delayed making a decision as long as practical, in hope that the forecast would improve.
Unfortunately, the forecast consistently calls for snow accumulations overnight, raising concerns
about the safety of all involved in the marathon.

I need a beer.

Go Team!!!!!