7 May 2008
So Close…
Posted by Mike Dopke under: Mike Dopke (Coach) .
The big day is just around the corner. Are you ready? I hope you are as excited about this race as I am. It has been a long and cold winter of training but it is about to pay off for each of you. We have trained in just about every weather condition Mother Nature could throw at us. It looks like she is going to be kind and reward us on Saturday. You are all going to do great.
People run this race for a lot of different reasons, and mine has changed throughout the years. The first time I ran was to lose weight. When I started running I was 25 pounds heavier and needed to find a way to drop some donuts. I figured that training for and completing the Riverbank Run would help me achieve a healthier lifestyle. I had no idea at the time how I would change not only physically, but as a person as well. I owe a lot to this race.
There is nothing like the feeling that you get standing at the starting line. If you could somehow harness the energy in the air it would light a city block for at least a week. If this is your first time then you will soon know that feeling for yourself. Take a good look around and soak it all in. You have earned it.
I have met many great friends through some affiliation with this race. It has been a springboard for several more races including the marathon, but The Riverbank Run still is and will always be my favorite. We are so blessed to have this great race right here in our own community. My training for next year will start as soon as I cross the finish line this year. Call me a lifer. I’ll see you all Saturday.
5 Comments so far...
Julie Hurley Says:
7 May 2008 at 2:55 pm.
I totally believe it about the energy in the air on Race Day. I could feel it last year, and I was “just” running the 5k. I had a stupid grin plastered on my face for at least 20 minutes before the starting gun.
Steve Kelly Says:
7 May 2008 at 4:01 pm.
ROAD WARRIORS! I’m jacked, amped, stoked, pumped, thrilled, terrified, at peace, at war, proud, and humbled…to name a few.
Nick Says:
7 May 2008 at 6:55 pm.
Can’t wait!
Bob Estes Says:
7 May 2008 at 8:22 pm.
Run to live, live to run. Here we go!
Shelly Says:
8 May 2008 at 9:31 am.
If my foot felt better as I was typing this, I’d be more giddy…but I know Saturday morning that feeling will be there! Can’t wait!!! The Riverbank definitely does create a whole new lifestyle!