The Running Whys – Marathon by the Sea
The motivations ranged from dedications, personal growth or just finishing five kilometres to winning their event or qualifying for the Boston Marathon. In May, we asked 20 people about the reasons they run – The Running Whys – and also why they decided to participate in the 20th Marathon by the Sea. The goal was to reach out and develop a small snapshot of those taking part in the Port City’s biggest running event on Sunday.
What we got was a poignant collection of stories that focused a number of themes, the biggest of all was family. The powerful replies, which can be seen here and here, generated wonderful accounts of dedication and recovery, tribute and purpose, all focused on a particular goal or goals for Sunday and beyond.
The goal was 20 stories. We finished with 22 as well as a timely series of coaching tips.
The profiles featured sisters, brothers, parents and children, husbands and wives, runners who saluted the memory of their grandfathers and mothers, runners who overcame learning disabilities, recovered from broken relationships or have transitioned to parenthood or decided to incorporate fitness into their daily routine.
They bounced back from injury.
They lost weight, a lot of weight and they ran, and ran and ran.
Some have competed in many Marathon by the Sea events, others are attempting to finish their first major distance. Some cross train, others raise funds for charity.
The reaction of their families and friends told another story that resonates with many in the field. These supporters spoke loudly with replies, shares, likes, retweets and comments on social media.
Their reactions included the following:
“Amazing.” “So inspiring.” “That made me a little teary.”
“It really showcases the camaraderie that we all know is typical of the running scene.”
“That’s my daughter and I am so proud of her.”
“Woo hoo.” “So proud.” “I cannot say enough about him. He has given so much and asked for so little.”
“You have always encouraged me.” “So much of what you wrote hits a chord with me.”
“It is an honor to call them my friends. Will be looking for them at the finish line.”
“I am so fortunate to have them in my life. Not only are they physically inspiring, they are genuine, fun
loving, generous, and make me want to hug the stuffings out of them every time I see them.”
“Sorry if you are tired of my bragging but…….my hubby is the coolest.”
“I am lucky to call her a friend.” “Very proud of your determination!”
“Awesome story about one of the truly great personalities of the local road race scene.”
“Well, that made me cry.”
Indeed emotion was the other prevailing theme in addition to family. One runner detailed how he likes to stay near the finish line after he wraps up his race to watch the reactions as others come in, piggybacking on the notion there is nothing quite like the scene at the finish line of a major running race.
It is a guarantee there will be many more emotional reactions Sunday in an event that has been described as the “best bang for your buck.”
The Red Mile salute to the memory of Cst Douglas Larche will ensure emotion will prevail in the opening strides. It figures to last 42.2 kms.
Now, the spectacular fireworks are finished, the kids have hustled through the park and today’s pasta sales are soaring through the city.
Good luck to all runners in the 20th anniversary of Emera Marathon by the Sea and thanks for reading.
Have a safe race.
