Pay it Forward

So this week I decided to "pay it forward" with the athletic goals I have been motivated to achieve. My friend Daniel has been talking about participating in a triathlon for sometime now. Over some playdough ice cream I told him he was done talking about it and time to act. After some convincing he and his friend are going to give it a shot at the Ogden Valley Triathlon on September 13. Best of luck to him as he trains. This week my running was slightly interrupted by the unexpected visit of my 93 year old Grandpa driving an RV nearly as old as him. Grandpa was particularly nostalgic this trip and told me to live with no regrets and not let go of oppurtunities. Add some cussing and some insults to the people sitting around us in the restuarant and you will get the full affect of Grandpa's advice. But his words still have some merit to them. As the marathon approaches I really see the benefit to training with friends. Julie and I hit the track this week and she did such a good job at running. She was very encouraging and kept me running when I was ready to just walk. This week I have seen friends do some incredible things and I envy their drive to keep going. Hopefully I can "pay it forward" with the inspiration they have provided for me.

The Beginning

About a month ago I was sharing my anecdotal narrative of my failed marathon attempt back in 2007. I have recounted this experience many times and I am always told at least I did 10 miles and all that matters is that I tried. Well on this particular night of recalling my account I was told by one man that I have unfinished business. Taken back I was quick to ask him if he had ever run a marathon. I fully expected him to say no. Well to my surprise I find out that my new friend has run a marathon and beyond. Now my friends, his words of unfinished business has plagued me ever since. So here I am now signed up for the Top of Utah Marathon on September 20, 2008. I’m hoping a new pair of shoes, new ambition and new running attitude will carry me through those 26.2 miles. If not , well I could always try doping.