This is not meant for the avid runners who go for a seven mile “light” jog (but feel free to read on). This is for everyone who thinks that they will never be able to run any long-distance events in their lifetime. Guess what? You can. I am in no way affiliated with the Holy Half Marathon, but I encourage everyone to sign up. Here’s my story:
Just over a year ago, I had not been able to run more than three miles at a time. Then my friend asked me to run the Holy Half. I was hesitant when registering for the race and even more hesitant after starting to train. Over the course of the next two months, I felt more and more accomplished. Week after week, I beat my previous distance. Run after run, I felt better and better. It eventually came time for us to pick up our packets, evoking feelings of happiness and fear when I got to see my bib and the number it carried. After the race, I felt like crawling into a hole and never seeing the light of day ever again. I told myself that was the last race I’d ever run.
Funny how long that vow lasted. A couple of weeks later, in April, that same friend convinced me to sign up for the Inaugural Dopey Challenge at Disney World. The challenge consists of a 5K, 10K, half-marathon and full marathon in four consecutive days, 48.6 miles total. Over winter break, I completed the first ever Dopey Challenge with two of my closest friend right by me for all 48.6 miles. I smiled for the picture when I crossed the finish line, but as soon as I knew the cameras were out of sight, I started balling my eyes out. They were tears of pure joy and happiness. It is still hard to grasp the enormity of what I had just accomplished. How often does one get to say they ran 48.6 miles?
Moral of the story? I went from a couch potato to a “marathoner” within a year. The Holy Half did a great job of letting me know that I am capable of running, but it was my friend who made me believe in myself. I want to be that person for you. I want to tell you that you can do it. I want you to know that you can finish the Holy Half and any other challenge you put your mind to. It will be a lot of work, but it is totally worth it.
Go Irish. Go you.
