My Storied Journeys in Running

In the world of marathons, where speed and endurance reign supreme, there lies a distinct category of runners—the ones driven by the pure love of the journey, not the pursuit of records. I belong to this tribe of enthusiasts whose passion for running transcends speedometers and finish lines. That being said, I’m not very fast, but I love the journey.

My affair with running commenced long before the marathon dream took root. It was a romance built on the cadence of my footsteps, the rhythm of my breathing, and the sights I encountered along the way. Despite never being the fastest, my love for running only grew stronger with time. As a parent, life demanded a temporary pause on the track, but as my children grew, the call of the marathon beckoned louder.

The decision to pursue the marathon was a pivotal one. I made a goal to run one by the age of 40. I did it at age 42. Months of disciplined training, meticulous planning, and unwavering dedication became the cornerstones of my marathon journey. The thrill of the race, the relentless training, and the desire to become stronger and faster motivated me every step of the way.

Running was more than a form of exercise; it was an avenue to engage with the community in a unique manner. The streets offered a distinct perspective compared to the view from a car window. The running community welcomed me with open arms, and through the miles we shared, lifelong friendships were formed.

However, fate had its own plans during the New York Marathon in 2021, my 50th birthday as well as the event’s 50th birthday. In a swift and unforeseen moment, on mile 18, my leg gave way, succumbing to a fracture. Devastation and heartbreak threatened to derail my dream, but my spirit refused to be broken. With crutches in hand, I resumed the race, defying the odds and finishing what I had started.

After healing and determination and a year-and-a-half of recovery, I stood ready to face the 2023 Ventura Mountains to Beach Marathon. The race was an ode to my resilience, a tribute to the passion that fueled my running soul. Yet, at mile 23.5, destiny threw another curveball, I broke my femoral neck. I was done at that race. I would not finish it.

A diagnosis of osteoporosis and medical advice against running could have been the end of my journey. Instead, it became a pivotal moment of adaptation. I have embraced the role of a walker. I hated it. It made me so mad. The desire to lengthen my stride and stretch out just calls to me with every outing. But running is out and walking is in and I realized that I could continue on with my love of races and the thrill they gave me. Plus, now I get to enjoy them for so much longer (since it takes so long to finish them!). Five months later, the Long Beach 1/2 Marathon in October 2023 was my way of proving to myself that the fire within still burned bright.

Now, on the brink of November 5th, 2023, I stand on the cusp of the New York Marathon once again. It’s not just about the race; it’s a personal triumph, a battle fought and won against the odds. With the unwavering support of my family, the love for the sport, and a heart filled with determination, I face the marathon again.

Five boroughs, more than likely 8 hours and hopefully a dream realized finishing that race on two feet! Wish me luck as I embark on this extraordinary journey once more.