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Running with my heart

5/12/2015

6 Comments

 
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Running constantly offers surprises and lessons. There is so much more involved in running than just putting one foot in front of the other. It involves the head and heart. It involves people and dreams.

Earlier this spring I applied to be a race ambassador. I'd learned about the program a year earlier and wanted to be part of the team ever since. The previous ambassadors had been so supportive and informative, I looked forward to being able to join them and give back to the race community, including newbie information-sponge runners like I'd been. One of the program requirements was that the ambassadors participate in the full marathon vs other distances. At this point I hadn't decided if a full marathon was in my future. I'd signed up for the half days after last year's race. I thought if I got into the program the decision would ultimately be made for me. I applied. A few days later I saw a social media post by the organizers that encouraged half marathoners to apply as the organizers were considering revising the marathon-only rule. I was very happy to see this as hoped it would increase the chances that my application would be accepted. 

The application deadline came and went. The day the team was to be announced the race organizers sent me a note asking me if I had decided whether I would be running the half or full. I'd been vague in my distance commitment on the application. Did this mean they had decided to stick with the marathon-only rule? If I committed to the marathon would I be accepted to the ambassador team? I wasn't sure. What I did know was that I had to decide here and now and let the cards fall where they may. This is where my head and heart differed. My heart said I wanted to be a race ambassador. My head had a list of reasons why the marathon was not a good idea, especially this year. My heart reminded me that when I am challenged I step up and get it done. My head asked me if being an ambassador was enough of a reason to run the marathon.  

In my reply I said  I was committed to racing the half, and that I hoped it wouldn't jeopardize my application. 

It did. 

Was I mad? Was I hurt? Initially, yes. I truly felt that the race could benefit from having ambassadors talking up the whole day and every distance--not just the marathon. I had really felt like I was a perfect candidate. I loved the race and was already a cheerleader for it. But, as someone who works in marketing and business I also understood that strategy is different than emotion and rules are rules.

Onward.

It's only been 24 hours, but knowing the outcome has freed my brain to let me think about the rest of the year. And, I've realized it's a relief to finally be able to confidently answer people when they ask..."No, I'm not doing the marathon. I am proudly running the half." It's also opened the door to exciting new things. Trail running. More focused speed training sessions. Running with our new dog. Cycling and strength training. 

New focus and dreams for my heart. 
6 Comments
Lisa barnhart
5/12/2015 12:52:21 pm

Wow. I know this feeling of debating between head and heart! But trust in yourself that this was the right decision for you! You have many years ahead of you to do both of these things on a timeline that makes the most sense.

Another ambassador opportunity will find you!!

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CathyV link
5/13/2015 03:32:53 am

Thanks so much, Lisa! :) I am feeling better and better about the decision to not jump into a marathon and excited about the rest of the year and new opportunities!

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Catherine link
5/27/2015 12:36:11 am

Awww! I'm so sorry that happened! 😡 It's odd that they wouldn't want ambassadors from different distances to promote the race entirely, but I'm so proud that you chose using both your head and your heart as ultimately you made the decision that was the best for you! I can't even fathom running a full marathon ever in my life so if I ever did, I would imagine if have more reasons to do it than just to be an ambassador. At least I hope so. I've always wanted to be an ambassador...LOL for what it's worth, I think you would have made an amazing one!!! They're loss for sure!

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Cathy V link
5/27/2015 03:12:56 am

Thanks so much Lisa and Catherine! Having heard so many people tell me I would be a good ambassador has been really great! It definitely renews my interest and hope in doing so. I have something in mind and will work towards that ;) In a way, the process has been really great as it has helped me really decide on the marathon. Running continues to teach!

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Janice link
6/5/2015 03:33:37 pm

Awwwww bug hugs! If it's the race I'm thinking of last year several ambassadors committed to the full and dropped down to the half in the 6 weeks to a month before the race. I'm sorry that you didn't get it. The Run for Kids is accepting applications to be an ambassador now - the longest distance is 15k, maybe you could apply for that one?

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CathyV link
6/8/2015 01:57:57 pm

Thanks Janice! I remember that with the race too. I am actually really glad now to have decided on the half. Lots happening in other areas and I would hate to feel like my training was a chore. Thanks for the info on Run for the Kids!

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    Cathy V

    Running. Design.  Family. Dogs. Gardening. Food. Crochet. Canadian. 
    ​Order varies. 


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