Last fall a colleague asked me if I would be interested in training through a Canadian winter for the Chilly 1/2 Marathon which was to take place on March 4th, 2012. I'm not sure why I agreed. Today, I'm reflecting on my reasons for doing this race this morning.
I'm
definitely not the runner 'profile'. I didn't start running until I was
in my late 40's. I'm now over 50 and overweight. That said, I have led Learn to
Run and 5k running clinics for the past 5 years, encouraging
recreational runners to embrace the experience - find their "happy pace"
and get active. This has been fantastic, however, I have come to realize that I
have a competitive spirit, I wish I had found it in my 20's. So, when
Gwen asked me to join her in training for the Chilly I said yes. As the
quote says...."do the thing you think you cannot do"- crap!
For some reason, I thought it would give me the motivation to lose 20 lbs, and maybe get a little more serious about running. The whole recreational thing is nice, but it starts to lose the challenge/motivation. I work with a lot of running people and I hang around with a lot of running people, I find it motivating, so, this winter I embarked on training for the Chilly Half.
What an experience this has been. This has been probably one of the mildest winters in Southwestern Ontario, however, it seemed that every LONG run we were faced with typical winter weather - bitter cold, sloppy or snowy conditions, not to mention, my 'old' and slightly overweight body was telling me this wasn't a great idea. From bunion pain, to cold induced Urticaria with dermographism (I had to go to the doctor to get that diagnoses) to a pulled hamstring - I sucked it up and kept going. Why?
Let me tell you about my training partner. I didn't mention that she is also my boss at work. Gwen is an amazing leader at work, in my humble opinion. I have worked for a lot of mangers, but WOW, this lady is amazing. I could list those qualities that define a great leader, but it's more than that, this quote captures it for me.
“Leaders must be close enough to relate to others, but far enough ahead to motivate them.” John Maxwell
As we trained together, Gwen was always in the lead but at no time did I feel that I was being left behind. She would 'charge' me with picking the route, or the training (hills or speed) and never pressure me into what I decided. She would provide options, a different perspective, but always with respect and empowerment. Her never failing determination helped me succeed. I didn't lose the 20lbs, but I gained something, an understanding as to what true leadership/friendship is, a respect for our differences, the ability to push through challenges and celebrate successes.
So, today I celebrate our success. Not my best time finish for a race but yet again, I am inspired by Gwen's determination, commitment and I am inspired to do more. Damn.
Thank you, Gwen and yes, I am very proud this evening.
