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| At the start line |
This weekend marked both my and Jer's first official half marathon. Although I've run 13+ miles before, I never "got the t-shirt," and when a friend from here in Colorado told me about the Gemini Desert Rats Trailrunning Festival in Fruita, Colorado, I figured it was time.Have I mentioned that Colorado has spoiled me? There is absolutely no shortage of natural features here in which to totally destroy yourself in the pursuit of an endorphin rush. And yeah, we here at the Salyer-Sullenger casa equate suffering with fun. That being said, there still was no suffering in this weekend's race; it was pure fun from mile one. Even the 2000 foot climb on rocks the consistency of jagged dragon's scales brought an element of enjoyment (especially when passing other people). The best part is the half marathon was actually a half marathon plus two miles. And every minute was sweet.If you haven't seen the trails in western Colorado, you're missing out. They are pure bliss. Every mountain biker I know has already discovered this nirvana, but I had yet to experience it. Trail running makes road running seem like self-flagellation--they just don't compare. Both Jer and I are already laying in plans for next year (perhaps a 25 miler instead of the half...).But the real hero of the weekend was our friend who pushed himself through 50 miles of running in twelve hours. We're talking over 8000 feet of elevation change. And 50 miles of running. Witnessing the kind of mental and physical endurance some people have really helps one put into perspective how anything is truly possible if you are determined enough. It's truly inspiring. Did I mention that it was 50 miles of running?Along those same lines, I watched the movie 127 Hours this weekend, another illustration of how indomitable a person's will can be if they want something bad enough. Danny Boyle pulled off yet another intriguing film (and a whole lot better than Slumdog Millionaire, though he still hasn't topped 28 Days Later, in my opinion). In reality, running 50 miles and cutting off your own arm are really about the same thing--wanting to live a full life.So here's to a full life! What are the things that bring you joy and make you feel like you're living up to the potential you were meant for?
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| At the finish line |
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All content copyright unless otherwise specified © 2008-2013 by Tammy Salyer, writer. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to use short quotes provided proper attribution is given.