My favorite running memory is running the 1996 Boston Marathon with my Dad, who was 75 years old. It was my 100th marathon and was my Dad's last marathon. When the finish line was in sight, Dad took off and zoomed by several runners. When asked about this run, he said "I would have run a lot faster if Jeff hadn't held me back". I never disagreed.
Finishing my first marathon is my greatest running memory. Yours is great as well.
Jeff, one of mine would be running with you at Chastain Park back in 2006! I was just learning to run for the first time on my prosthetics. Thanks for your investment in me. Your method helped me cross “the most famous finish line on earth, the Hawaiian Ironman and make history!”
Blessings,
Scott
My favorite running memory would be completing my second marathon at Disney World 2008.
There is something almost surreal running at Disney World. Magical would describe it, although the pixie dust does tend to dissipate at around mile 20, but that’s when we must dig deep in ourselves to keep our feet moving. It helped when I saw someone walked by wearing the medal and the little foil blanket.
One word describes the journey into Epcot, which is the final journey home, – “ouch.” As I made my way into Epcot, I took a moment to look at the runners around me and I was both humbled and proud. Last year, I was so disappointed with myself that I never took the opportunity to look around and watch the people I ran the race with but this year I did. And it was probably one of the most gratifying moments in my life – I was sharing this moment with runners who were tall, short, thin, fat and slow but we all had one common goal: to get over the finish line.
Many were crying while others were laughing. Some were silent but had steely determination. Some men and women were holding onto each other so they could move forward. Alot of sweat and alot tears.
As I entered the runner’s finish chute, I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t know whether to cry, laugh or do both. I could see the finish line. People were screaming at us to move forward and music was playing loudly.
I crossed the finished line and I was happy. I made it. My second marathon.
My time? I was actually a minute slower than last year. 5hr39min. But you know, despite the slower time, I ran a better and stronger race. It took me over an hour to run the last four miles but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Yes, it would be nice if I were a faster runner but I am not and that’s okay. I am having fun and that’s what running is all about.