Lack of Motivation Turned Inspiration
Photo license: © All rights reserved
Last Sunday was a bit of a slog for me. My scheduled “long” run wasn’t all that long (as far as marathon training goes). I only had 10 miles up, with a mini tempo workout built into it. Even though I had been looking forward to the run, I couldn’t get myself moving out the door. My 8AM start time became later and later. I sat around hemming and hawing, staring out the window imagining the cold.
I also had a race bib in-hand for Sunday’s NYRR Gridiron Classic. It’s a fun winter 4-miler. I knew a lot of people who would be there running and volunteering. Again, I couldn’t motivate. Eventually I opted to skip the race. Factoring its four miles into my workout simply felt cumbersome. Eventually I got myself over the hurdle of getting dressed and left my apartment. The time was nearly 10:30AM.
As I merged onto Central Park’s West Drive, NYRR staff were collapsing race equipment. I figured the 4-mile race was long over. But as I approached, I saw the most amazing moment. The finish line with its clock and timing mats was still intact; and, there was a gentleman with his walker completing the race. All other race participants were long gone. But the NYRR volunteers and staff, bundled in their myriad of layers, were enthusiastically cheering as he crossed the line.
Suddenly, my morning of lackluster motivation and procrastination transformed into a rare moment of alignment. By waiting long enough, I wound up witnessing a genuine act of runner camaraderie. Not that one needs to search far in a community known for supporting its members. But, to see such a spectacularly triumphant and kind-hearted moment was a true gift.
LV runs NYC 
Thank you for sharing. Truly amazing to think that man was determined enough to register and finish that race… and that people stuck around till the end for him!
Awesome…I want to grow up and be that guy.
Good on him for completing the race. It must have taken a great deal of mental fortitude. Also, kudos to the volunteers for braving the elements to support him. WItnessing events such as the one described have an inexplicable way of stirring the soul.
What an awesome guy. I remember running in the park and seeing a guy finishing up a race in a wheelchair. He was apparently so exhausted that he couldn’t use his arms anymore and was pushing himself backwards with his feet. Talk about inspiring.
Thanks for sharing! I ran the 4 miler this weekend and I’m touched to know that they stuck around for him to finish. What an inspiration!
Pingback: {Friday Faves} Reads, Runs and Raves | Fit Girl. Happy Girl.
how lovely, I truly believe that runners are the best people!
What a beautiful moment to see! Reminds us that we have no excuses, huh?! I just registered for the Eugene Half! I’m so excited for it, should be a fun and challenging course. Good luck with your training!
Thanks for sharing!! Those are the kind of moments where you’re at the right place at the right time make me wonder if everything is truly random or if some little things are meant to be. 🙂