Listen to the audio version on the Run to Write Podcast or read below.
Close your eyes and time travel with me to your first race.
Where was it? Why did you sign up? Who did you meet? What did it feel like to cross the finish line?
I recall a warm morning, a bright blue sky, and the air— still. We all crowded the starting line. My aunt and younger cousin stood on the roadside to cheer us on and take pictures. Looking at all the people of all ages who had gathered to run, I felt proud to be there.
I was six years old. I toed the start line with my uncle, cousin, and older sister. It was a local 5K race. My uncle loved to run and would bring me to road races. My cousin and I were close in age. It was fun to run with him.
In my childlike view, it was a run party— all were welcomed. Music played, spectators cheered, and food and drinks were waiting for us at the finish. I could feel the excitement as we sang the national anthem and everyone gathered closer to the start line. We were side-by-side anticipating the gun to go off. My ears were alert for the sound. The announcer’s voice boomed into the megaphone…On your mark, get set…
BANG!
We were off as the spectators cheered and shouted. An entourage of runners surrounded me with each stride. I didn’t need to worry about making a wrong turn or running alone. There was always someone next to me for reassurance, encouragement, and support— a comfort I craved.
When I crossed the finish line I was overwhelmed with emotion. It was a feeling that was hard to put into words. Yet looking back I felt seen. I felt proud of accomplishing a goal and I believed I was a part of something.
I recognized at a young age how I felt when I ran— strong, confident, powerful, and free.
When I laced up my sneakers I felt this feeling each time. I would choose running as my play every chance I could.
I was experiencing and seeing camaraderie, enthusiasm, kindness, and love in one simple action…running. It was a community I wanted to be a part of and a reason I keep racing today. The magic of moving with others.
You’re invited to Run to Write Mondays! Movement of choice then join us at 11 am (EST) to write. I will provide a writing prompt to get you started then… let it rip!
Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
Gatherings and Events in August:
August 6:
Join us for a unique collaborative event hosted by Run to Write and Thekchen Choling Syracuse.
Time: 6:30 -8:30 pm
Location: Thekchen Choling Syracuse, 109 East Ave, Minoa, NY
Street parking available
Suggested donation: $15-$20
For more information and to register please reply to this email.
August 10: The Michael French Memorial Meals on Wheels of Western Broome 5K Run/Walk. Let’s move together! I’ll have a table at this event signing and selling books.
August 14th: This is the next free summer session of Run to Write. We begin promptly at 9:30 am. We meet at Freedom of Espresso in Liverpool, NY. Check out the event page here for more details and to register.
August 18: Local Author Showcase at Clay Historical Association Open House from 1-3 pm. A wide variety of books will be available for purchase.
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