I guess you could say I am like the guest that wouldn’t leave. One Wednesday night last September, I showed up for my first run with AREC and have been coming back for more ever since.
Initially, I started running because it was the best exercise I could think of that didn’t require equipment or other people. Just me, some shoes (OK, and clothes), and a little motivation. I was falling short on the motivation part, so I decided to try a running club. I really didn’t know what to expect. After all, I had never really run in a race and certainly had never classified myself as a serious runner, or as a runner at all. But, I called AREC anyway and left a message. Todd called back that night and was so open, encouraging and warm that I had to try the club out.
So I showed up, a bit nervous and the only one wearing a reflective vest, and a shiny new one at that. Hey, it was starting to get a bit dark in the evenings. That’s me, Gauche but Safe! (Not a very snappy motto but a motto nonetheless!) After the standard intro from Todd and the welcoming applause, I took off with the group. I used my usual mode of navigation in unfamiliar places, and I followed someone who looked clued in. Yep, I followed Laura right into the bathroom. After a few moments, I emerged from the bathroom somewhat bewildered, if not relieved, and continued on to run 4 miles my first night. I was quite proud of myself and anxious to make the full five miles, which I did shortly thereafter.
During my first few runs, I talked with various people (or rather, listened, because I was busy gasping for air and struggling to keep up). Between desperate wheezes, I remember managing to make the point that my goals were modest. All I wanted to do was be consistent and maybe run a few 10K races sometime WAY off in the future. I had no intention of doing any long distances and certainly saw no reason to run a full or even a half marathon. Fast forward to the present. My registration confirmation card arrived yesterday for the Las Vegas Half Marathon. How did that happen?
Now I really do look forward to the Wednesday night runs and do not let anything short of an extreme emergency get in the way. I have met a wonderful group of people that I feel honored to call friends. I find I am becoming a runner and am looking forward to reaching new goals. Last, but not least, I get to participate in the ritualistic imbibing of freshly baked bread and authentic Guinness Stout after each run. Thanks everyone, it is much easier with you all!