What makes a Marathoner? Is it covering the 26.2 miles? Do you have to run the whole race? Is it ok to walk some of it? What if you are slow, does that somehow make you less of a Marathoner?
While scrolling through Facebook, I came across a post about this very subject and it got me thinking. I have crossed the finish line of a marathon. I did the Rock n Roll Savannah Marathon in 2014. Honestly, I have mixed feelings about "claiming" that race. I did not run nor walk the full 26.2 miles. I rode the "party bus" for the back of the pack and missed a mile or so. This was allowed and was referred to in race packet, so no rules were broken and all was on the up and up. I did have to walk back to the hotel, which made up that distance, so technically, yes, I covered the full distance. Yet, it has stuck in the back of my mind since. I slapped a 26.2 sticker on my car. I have since changed distance stickers and have not re added the 26.2. So, this leads back to the original question. What makes a Marathoner? If you cover the distance, regardless of how fast or slow, you ARE a Marathoner. I have said before, I am in awe of people that run fast. Truly. I am so not one of them. I am slow, and sadly, I am getting slower as we speak, but I will get back out there. Here are my thoughts, I respect anyone that can go out and run a marathon in 4 hours or less, but the back of the pack that is out there for 6+ hours? Think about that. When the faster finishers are done, have had their after race water and bagel etc, sometimes after the awards, we are still out there one foot in front of the other. That is dedication and determination. It is not for an award, we will not place, we won't make it on the podium, it is for US. We do it because we can, and to show OURSELVES that we can do this. I respect that. I believe that deep down, that is why I never put the 26.2 sticker back on my car. I want to show MYSELF, that I can complete the full marathon before I do. I have signed up for my redemption marathon in October of this year... hopefully that 26.2 sticker will follow. Happy running!
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AuthorThis is the story of me... a Back of the Pack runner that started this journey a few years ago then lost her way. I am starting over and you are invited along for the ride! The highs, lows, wins and lessons, and most likely some venting!! Welcome!! Archives
May 2017
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