When I was approached by the organizers of this fundraiser to write an inspiration article, it took me by complete surprise as I never considered myself an inspirational runner! I’m not an elite athlete nor will I ever be, yet I’ve found a love of sliding into my running shoes and hitting the pavement come rain or shine!
It all started about 6 ½ years ago when I set my mind into this new challenge. I chuckle to myself when I look back to the days when I started to run. I really have no idea what inspired me to get out of bed at 6am, conquer our BC weather and run around the block every morning. It wasn’t easy at first and was a huge challenge. I had to stop two or three times during my regular route just to gasp for air and cough up a lung. I was overweight and had recently quit smoking. I remember thinking on one of my bad days “People who run more than 5 km’s have to be completely Cuckoo to go any further distance!”
Well, with consistency and commitment, I’m now one of those “Cuckoo” people! Within a 2 year period I was completing 10 km races and Half Marathons. I haven’t completed a Full Marathon yet, however, it is in the horizon. During my training and early morning runs, there are still times I ask myself what has driven me to this insanity! There are many reasons why I enjoy running. After thinking long and hard about “Why do I love to run?”, I have come up with my 10 top reasons:
10. Running is a “Social Activity” – The best thing I did as a beginner to running was to join a running group. This is a great way to meet people who have the same interest. Not only does it keep you motivated, it’s a great information tool for learning different running techniques, stretches and strategies.
8. It’s my “Time Out” – When I’m running short or long distances, it really helps me gather my thoughts and sort things out. It makes it easier to face the day’s upcoming challenges and it also allows me the opportunity to reflect on the things that are important in life.
7. It “Sets an Example” – I like to be a good example to my family. Setting goals is a part of anyone’s personal success. I admit that there are days when it’s a challenge just to get out of bed, slip into my running gear and head out the door! Other days it’s a challenge just to cross that finish line. Anyway you look at it, if you work hard at accomplishing your goals, you are setting a good example.
6. Running “Helps me Feel Better” – There’s no better feeling than the feeling you have after a run. I feel rejuvenated and alive! I sleep better, too!
5. I’ve learned to enjoy other activities through “Cross Training” – Through experience, it’s not always good to run everyday. Injuries can occur from the constant use of the same muscles. Although I love to run, I limit my running to 3 or 4 times a week. I have learned to enjoy swimming, biking, going to the gym, core training and stretching and they are all a part of my fitness regime.
4. It keeps me “Motivated” – Going to running group and entering myself into races keeps me motivated. Although everyone has a different way of motivating themselves, this has worked best for me.
3. It has helped me “Control my Weight” – I have found that running and exercise is the key to controlling my weight issue. For most of us, as we all get older it becomes harder to control. This is a great way to lose or maintain your weight goals.
2. I’m Healthier” – With diabetes and other heart problems in my family, I decided to run to prevent conditions such as these. Exercise has a very important role to reduce and prevent such health issues with everyone!
And the No. 1 reason I run – “The Finish Line”. With the all preparation, training and all those miles my feet have pounded before a race, it really doesn’t seem to matter how many races I’ve been in, when I see that finish line, I get this overjoyed sense of accomplishment. Actually, it’s more like “Oh, Thank God!” or “Woo Hoo!” The way I see it, I’ve conquered another challenge. Whether it’s a good race or bad race, I finished!
I hope to see you at the “Run for Rescue”, crossing that finish line and accomplishing your challenge! Whether it’s your first challenge or just another daily run, make it a family day or a day to spend with your friends to raise money for the Search and Rescue Team as well as the Two African Villages, Utha and Dixie. Your donations are greatly appreciated and will help with the challenges both must overcome on a daily basis.
See you all at the Finish Line!
Your fellow runner,
Lisa Reid
**Photo from Victoria Marathon 2005
Some pictures from this year's event are posted below, not in any particular order, but approximately in sequence...
More will be added slowly...