As Sunday's start of the Big Sur Interntional Marathon quickly approaches, numerous thoughts and emotions have been swirling around in my head. At the time of this post, 11 days have passed since the tragic events at the Boston Marathon. I first heard the news in my car as I was driving home from out of town and couldn't believe what I was hearing. I had just finished watching the pro men's and women's races just hours before.
As the story and coverage unfolded, all I could think about was how close this hit to home. My family, friends, and I have been at numerous finish lines as participants and as spectators. Some family and friends even contacted me to see if I was in Boston for the race. Why on earth would would anyone want to target this scene of accomplishment and encouragement?
In the weeks just prior to the Boston tragedy, I had been a bit discouraged as I prepared for Big Sur. But like many others, the events in Boston have helped put things in perspective. I believe I have a better, more positive outlook going into Sunday's marathon along with a sense of peace. Helped along greatly by the constant encouragement of family and friends, I'm just going to go out and just enjoy my first full marathon. There will be the beautiful sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean, numerous on-course attractions, and 4500 inspiring runners racing next to me that I'm looking forward to.
Also, I'll be running on behalf of the Lazarex Cancer Foundation which will make this race even more special. I can not say enough about how grateful I am to all my family and friends that have pledged their support to this charity. Because of them, I was able to raise almost $1700 for this charity. Thank you so much!
I think most of all though, I'll be looking forward to seeing my wife, kids, parents, and friends at the finish. I'm sure it will be that anticipation that will carry me through the last couple of miles.
Can't wait!
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