Who Do You Run For?

By Coach Robbie

Hey All,

I have to apologize. I know I haven't written to you in a few weeks. But, to be completely honest, I've been really busy. Between work and family, I haven't had much time to think, let alone write. And on top of it all, I feel like I've had writers cramp!

But that has all changed. As I write this on my Palm Treo I'm flying back from Buffalo NY, the coldest, darkest, dreariest place in the US short of Alaska, reading the December issue of Runner's World magazine. While reading this issue I ran across a Breast Cancer Ad where the headline read "Who do you run for?"

Who Do I Run For?

What a powerful statement this ad makes. Having just spent the last four (4) days helping my sister pack and move my 79 year old Dad I've had plenty of time to reminisce about the past. My Mom died from lymphatic leukemia in March of 2003. I last saw my mother in good health in December 2002. We had lunch together and had a great time. My mother was active all throughout her life. She regularly worked out at the gym, played tennis and golf and road a motorcycle! Throughout my teens and as a young adult I was never active. I avoided physical activity. She would always encourage me to engage in some physical activity but I would just say “I don’t have time”. My mother would say, “Robbie, you have to make time.”

Well, eventually I did make the time. At the time my mother and I had our last lunch, I was 3 or 4 years into serious running. I had not tackled a half or full marathon yet but my Mom was pleased to see me exercising and taking an active interest in my health. But over the following three months my Mother’s health went downhill fast. By the time she was diagnosed with lymphatic leukemia there was nothing that could be done. In early March, my sister called to tell me I needed to get on a plane immediately and come home. When I arrived in Buffalo, my mother was heavily medicated and did not know who I was. My mother died a week later.

As sad as that all sounds, over the past four (4) days my sister, father and I have reflected on all kinds of memories, mostly good, some not so good. One day, while packing, I discovered a book that belonged to my mother. The book, entitled "Path To Victory: A Sports New Testament With The Testimonies Of Athletes Who Are Winning In Life", reminded me of the active lifestyle my mother led. My mother had a strong bond with God and was devoted to keeping her body and soul in good health. In comparison, I don't share the same belief in God as my mother (I'm agnostic) but I have come to see the value of maintaining good health. But what really took me by surprise was the impact my mother had on my health. I had always credited my Dad, more than my Mom, with making me the man I am today. What a revelation I had this week. The reality is, they BOTH contributed equally.

I Know Who I Run For.

Up until now, I had thought that I run for my own self-gratification. After all, the sense of accomplishment is very satisfying. I truly enjoy running. I’m sure many of you can relate to this. But after reflecting on the past, I came to realize that it’s not all about me and it never has been. I run for many reasons. I run for my Dad, my sister, my brother, my kids and many others as an example of the benefits that come from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I run in honor of my Mother, who taught me the importance of taking care of myself. And as I believe my Mother did for me, I run for my children so that I will live long enough to teach them how to win in this life. I also run as just another example of the fact that you can do whatever you set your mind to. That is why I try to see something positive in doing hills, speed work and tempo runs while others might complain and avoid these important forms of training.

Who Do You Run For?

Obviously, I’ve shaken the writer’s cramp. But since it’s not all about me, it’s now time for you to reflect on and give some thought to the statement, “Who do you run for?” If you’re running, whether it’s with or without the group, you’re obviously committed. But what keeps you committed? It’s important to revisit this periodically so that you maintain your focus. And if you’re so inclined, I’d love to hear from each of you on this topic.