GLOBAL RUNNING DAY

Today, June 7, 2017, is GLOBAL RUNNING DAY (click on this link to PLEDGE)

I just got back from a 3 mile run.  THIS is my favorite way to start off a day.  

But, GLOBAL RUNNING DAY is not just about telling you to go run.  It's a celebration of the sport of running and it's community.  It's a day for people all around the world to celebrate the joys of running.   

It can be a solo lap around the track or around your block, a long run with friends, or even a game of tag with your kids.

I am doing it (or did it!) to share my passion for running and hopefully inspire others to get moving.

Many of you have heard or read WHY I started running.  To recap: I started running in the late Summer of 2012 when a friend encouraged/challenged me to run a 5K.  This race was for a couple of GREAT inner city organization that are making a difference in my city.

That one 5K (3.1 miles) has led to running all distances from 5Ks to 10Ks, 6 half marathons to 8 full marathons (26.2 miles) and hundreds of miles of training.

I was asked one time if I really like to run.  YES!  I really like to run, and here's why:

• MY HEALTH
• I have mentioned before that my dad died in his 50s and his dad before him died in his 50s.  I made a decision that I wasn't going to die in my 50s by something that I could control.  Running helps me with staying healthy
• RELIEF OF STRESS
• Doing something physical is a GREAT way to "push" out any stress you might be feeling.  It's so much better than sitting on the couch and worrying!
• CLEAR MY MIND
• I mentioned I like running in the morning.  What a great way to start the day and have a clear mind before I take on the day.  Also, I usually don't "wake up" until about half way through my run....extra bonus!
• FOR OTHERS
• I have found real joy and satisfaction by taking on a cause, especially in my full marathons.  I have had the privilege of running as a St. Jude Hero for ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL, raising money and awareness for the patients and the patient families.  
• There's something about running for others that encourages and inspires me to keep going
• FOR THE CHALLENGE
• I would be lying if I said I just go out for fun.  I want to do my best each time I go after a half marathon and full marathon.  I love the challenge of the training, in all elements, that gets me ready/prepared for the race.
• COMMUNITY
• I have met people, near and far, who also enjoy the sport of running.  It's a unique community that look out and encourage each other.  

So, get out and run today and by doing so, you'll be joining over a million others in 177 countries around the World.

HAPPY GLOBAL RUNNING DAY!