I am a runner. I was never sure exactly what it would take for me to be able to call myself a runner, but I believe some combination of the following milestones allow me to do so:
- I ran 26.2 miles (twice!)
- I've run over 10 miles in snow and ice
- I ran a race at 8000 degrees altitude
- I dream about running
- I love talking about running
- I think running is cathartic
- I don't feel like myself if I haven't run in more than 2 days
I once saw a shirt that said "Yeah I run like a girl. Try and keep up." I want this shirt. But I am afraid to buy it because there will be such sad irony when I am inevitably passed by guys. Besides, it may give the ones I could outrun extra motivation to pass me.
I am not a special runner. I'm faster than some people and a lot slower than others. I have done things that many people might consider tough but I would be considered a total sissy to triathletes, uber-tough ultramarathoner Dean Karnazes-types, and even some kids. But I love to run.
I think maybe when I go out to run, I'll just stick with the wonderful strategy created by Pam from the Office: "I'm going to start fast. Then I'm going to run fast in the middle. Then I'm going to end fast."
There are plenty of other things you could learn about me that have nothing to do with running. I hate all condiments except salsa, I played a man in a play my senior year in high school, I once got hit with a baseball bat, I had a stuffed duck named soy sauce, I've eaten emu, I want to be on Saturday Night Live, I've been skydiving, scuba diving, canyoning, and friendamizing...but this blog isn't about any of that stuff.
Like running without music, sports gel, or fancy toe-shoes: I'm keeping it pure.
Join me if you'd like...
