Well its nearly official: As of November 1, I will have been a full-fledged runner for 4 YEARS!
I remember back to Nov 1, 2003 when I asked myself: "wonder if I can run?" So I attempted ... well, truthfully, it was embarrassing, as I gasped for air after running past 2 mailboxes in my neighborhood....
I couldn't believe how difficult it was to take that first step (pardon the pun) on my running adventure. Still, I committed to running 'til the end of the month'.... In December of that year, I thought, 'I'll do this until the end of the year'... In January 2004 I remember asking DH if he thought I would EVER be able to run a mile without stopping...he, being the gentleman he is, said "SURE YOU WILL!" (what a great support he is!!!) Well, it took longer than I thought it would, but that non-stop running mile finally came ... I entered my very first competitive race in January, 2004, a 5k (3.1 miles) which I finished in a pretty embarrassing 48 minutes .. but I was ECSTATIC to cross that finish line, even at that!
Now, here I am at the 4 YEAR MARK!!! Pardon me, but that's pretty daggoned exciting for this nearly-52-year-old-never-been-an-athlete woman!!
I've kept running and my progress and accomplishments are shocking, even to me, when I consider I've run over 6,000 training miles, including 2 full marathons (26.2 miles each), countless half marathons (13.1 miles) and tons of 15ks, 10ks, and 5ks!
All this to say, I am proud and yet I hope that my achievements can help inspire anyone who thinks their opportunities to become athletic are past ... its NEVER too late to try...you may just find out how capable you REALLY are to do what seems impossible!!!
I am not special, folks .. just determined, disciplined and dedicated. I've found a hobby that I truly love; and one that helps me deal with the stresses of life while rewarding me with a way to easily maintain my weight loss for the past 6 years....
IF I CAN DO IT, YOU CAN DO IT. The journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step. No experience necessary, just a will to keep on going!
Hugs to all!
Betty
I remember back to Nov 1, 2003 when I asked myself: "wonder if I can run?" So I attempted ... well, truthfully, it was embarrassing, as I gasped for air after running past 2 mailboxes in my neighborhood....
Now, here I am at the 4 YEAR MARK!!! Pardon me, but that's pretty daggoned exciting for this nearly-52-year-old-never-been-an-athlete woman!!
I've kept running and my progress and accomplishments are shocking, even to me, when I consider I've run over 6,000 training miles, including 2 full marathons (26.2 miles each), countless half marathons (13.1 miles) and tons of 15ks, 10ks, and 5ks!
All this to say, I am proud and yet I hope that my achievements can help inspire anyone who thinks their opportunities to become athletic are past ... its NEVER too late to try...you may just find out how capable you REALLY are to do what seems impossible!!!
I am not special, folks .. just determined, disciplined and dedicated. I've found a hobby that I truly love; and one that helps me deal with the stresses of life while rewarding me with a way to easily maintain my weight loss for the past 6 years....
IF I CAN DO IT, YOU CAN DO IT. The journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step. No experience necessary, just a will to keep on going!
Hugs to all!
Betty


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