Finally, she said…
Well, this is it. Finally, the training is all over, and now the wait is on with just hours before your big day.
Over two months ago, we started our Sunday training runs… running through mud and snow and with all types of weather. You never knew what to expect in terms of temperatures until that very morning you set out.
These training runs were designed to help build your running endurance, technical skills, and strength… to help prepare you for your race. But, I think, our runs did so much more. You probably learned a lot about yourself during those hours on the trails… I now know the meaning of “talking to oneself” quite well. I hope you developed new relationships and hopefully, lasting friendships. This type of running does that sort of thing.
It is an amazing process that we go through. I have heard this many times, that it is often the process rather than the finished product that defines the experience. Yes, it is good to get to that finish line, but remember the journey that you experienced to get there.
Our last training run from Lynn Valley Park to Deep Cove was enjoyed by all. Perhaps it was because we knew our run was “shorter” than usual, or perhaps we realized it was our last official Sunday run before our event, whatever the case, you could hear plenty of laughter and talking while bouncing over the suspension bridge (I held on tight).
A little humid at first and muddy (what’s new!), but once on the “grind” the air felt fresher. I met some fellow runners on the trail and had some great chats. Across the “finish line” in Deep Cove, many runners hung around and chatted before leaving, and some hanging out in the ocean. The run was over before you knew it!
So, I wish you all every success tomorrow. Be safe, be strong, and most importantly, enjoy it.
Finally, she said it…
Patricia Jensen, Trail leader
