Adventure is hard wired into the human soul. So it was with excitement that I set out on my marathon per month celebration of the first 50 years. Of course, this sentiment was captured by Horace Greeley’s directive, “Go West young man, go West…”, and Dickens book, thus titled, Great Expectations.
It was a brilliant day; the temperature moderate and the sun evident to an extent not seen in a remarkably cold two months. This turned out to be my most enjoyable marathon yet run. My plan is to run each fully 1/3 slower than my average pace so that I do not get injured. Therefore, there is no pressure for a PR (personal record). I ran with a backpack and (2) cameras. There was time to stop and film the beauty of the morning and the surroundings of Callaway Gardens.
The greatest benefit of a non-race attitude was the opportunity to chat and film fellow runners. Each had their own story. There was Gail from the Bahamas-this was her 125th marathon, and we called her American Idol as she sang (too loudly) for the 1st 10 miles. Stan from Plano, TX, a member of a national group called, The Marathon Maniacs-the minimum criteria for membership is (2) marathons within 16 days of one another, or 11 marathons within 12 months. Hmmm..I would be eligible…the mind reels. Then I met a Brit with whom I ran from mile 4 through mile 18. She too had crossed aged 50. We spilled forth about our lives and despite the highs and lows, admitted that we are happier at 50 than 20. It is clear at 50 that there are fewer years left than have been lived. There is nothing quite like this truth to focus one on the enjoyment of the remainder. At mile 18 we both, without apparent obvious cue, reached for our headsets, separated, and ran alone, the conversation seemingly complete and satisfying to both.
I can’t wait for Feb. 20th and Ft. Lauderdale!
“I am turning 50!! To celebrate the gift of life, and to give exclamation to the 1st 50 years, I am running one marathon per month. I look forward to enjoying the physical thrill of this adventure. In addition, charity is an important theme for me. In this regard, I am linking this adventure to Mid-Town Athletic Club Junior Squash. Should I accomplish all 12 marathons, I am asking for donations of either $26 (get it: 26 miles) or $52.
Keith
Pledge your support to Keith in a comment at the bottom of this page. Click on the word bubble to comment and read the comments of others. Check back often to see how Keith has done and what he is doing next!
