This was my first time running the Ottawa Marathon and I must say that it was a truly memorable experience. For starters I am not aware of how many races that permit you to run into two provinces all in the same day. I for one truly enjoyed the opportunity to ran pass parliament while it is easy to be pessimistic with regards to our elected leaders I have always found Parliament Hill a source of inspiration.
However as I reflect back on the race I can write about how well organized it was (no sarcasm) and how I personally felt a great sense of satisfication on not only setting a new personal best but also returning to a city that I once called home but what truly stood out for me was the look of determination of the wheelchair marathon as he was making his way across the half way point of the race. I was heading in the opposite direction and with a group of 20-30 other runners and the sight of this athlete caused everyone to start clapping simultaneously. While I am not one to take anything for granted the sight of this individual was truly humbling for me. It gave me a renewed sense as to why I run and it’s not because I want to qualify for Boston (although I really do) and not because I want to get faster (not sure that I’m fast to begin with) but I mainly because I think it is important for all of us to be touched by a sense of humility. The sight of other people overcoming a myriad of adverisities reflects the purity of this individual pursuit that I call running. I am certainly not dimishing the value of competition but I find a greater reward in the sense of the accomplishment of finishing a race as opposed to where I finish.
I hope that I am able to run for many years and that I never forget why I run.
