What has inspired me to train for my first 5K run at age 62?
The dream began last fall. Lured by the promise of hot cocoa and other tasty treats, I registered for the Chicago Hot Chocolate Run. My intent was to walk the 10K route.
After signing up, I had some trepidation. Did I, a mere walker, belong in this community of runners? I didn’t feel confident, but I was committed. After all, I had paid my registration fee.
Race day was cold and rainy, but I joined thousands wearing their cool, gray swag in Grant Park. Of course, I was in one of the slowest starting waves. At the sound of the horn, I was off and walking at a pretty good clip. I was surprised to discover that I was able to walk as fast as some of the slower runners. Maybe I did belong.
I followed the route under Wacker Drive. The tunnel was dark; I tried to ignore the stench of car fumes. Not an ideal place to exercise, but I persevered.
As I kept pace with the slow runners, I was suddenly in touch with a mysterious energy. I was walking really, really fast, and yet, my movements were effortless. It felt like the group was carrying me. We were all in the flow, moving together as one.
Eventually, we popped back out of the tunnel; the sun was now shining. The runners began to spread out. My pace slowed. I was walking on my own again, but the memory of the group energy kept me going.
Finally, I crossed the finish line and collected my medal. I waded through ridiculous crowds to receive my bowl of sweet treats – cookies, bananas, marshmallows, rice Krispie treats, and a thick chocolate dipping sauce. Yes – it was worth it!
While I’m still in touch with the sugar buzz, what is most alive for me is the mysterious energy among the runners and the feeling of being carried. For a few minutes under Wacker Drive, I had been swept along by something bigger than myself. I wasn’t just walking as an individual; the group of runners and I were one.
This sweet event has inspired me to continue. Last month, I completed the One Mile – Shamrock Shuffle (not the well known 8K but the warmup run!) impressing both myself and my adult children by running the whole race. Even sweeter was the experience of witnessing the last two finishers. One used a walker and the other a cane, and they never gave up!
Now, I’m using a “couch to 5K” app to train for the 5K Run for the Zoo in May. I’m also trying to reduce my blood sugar although the sweetness of Easter candy is pretty tempting right now!
How are you? What is keeping you going during these challenging times? Who or what is inspiring you? When have you tasted sweetness?
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