Reasons to walk
This is what I heard just moments before witnessing these daring participants in the Marathon du Medoc last week. I knew you'd probably enjoy this photo but I didn't want to frighten anyone in my first posting!
Walking the Terry Fox event on Sunday in the blazing heat and humidity, I think I finally de-toxed on my Medoc wine tasting consumption.
The more events I walk the more I appreciate the value of each. Medoc was an extraordinary experience of joie de vivre, camaraderie, and beauty (well, depending on what's coming up on your left!). The Terry Fox Run is both a celebration of life and a life. Terry's story is one of such personal courage, resilience, and tenacity that I feel compelled to get out for the 10k distance no matter what the weather is promising. On that second Sunday in September I always wake up saying "If Terry could do this every day for months, much of it with no supporters other than a couple of friends in a van, I can make this effort."
In the weeks to come there are many more organized events that will have us toning down the Saturday night festivities and witnessing the early Sunday morning moon set. I look forward to all of them.
If you haven't committed to anything yet, Sunday September 28 is chock full with opportunity.
As many of you know we have been following Myra's Marathon to raise funds for the CNIB library. Myra has now completed 12 of 13 half marathons in each province and territory across Canada. The last one to complete is in her home town - Toronto! Myra will be walking the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon on September 28 and we would love to overwhelm her in the final chapter of her fund raising project with as many supporters as possible. If you would like to walk the event with us (or in support of Myra but at your own pace) sign up under her team at http://www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com/ . We have back bibs and bracelets (for a nominal fee) that all supporters can wear as a show of support. There will also be a crowd of us on the sidelines cheering her on.
The good news/bad news about September 28 is that there is another equally fabulous and worthwhile event happening in Kitchener where a group of dynamic and enthusiastic walkers have orchestrated the KW Walking Classic. Yes! A walk-only event and the first of its kind in Canada! There are 5k and 10k options. From what I've seen and heard from these organizers this will prove to be a huge and continuing success. As well as recognizing the growing popularity and excellence of walkers everywhere, the event will raise awareness of mental health issues, particularly the importance of activity for those suffering from mental health disability. Have a look at www.kwwalkingclassic.com
Use this post to let us know what inspires you when entering races and leave us a review of one of your favourite races.
Labels: Thoughts on racing
posted by Wow Power Walking Founder @ 7:29 AM
3 Comments
3 Comments:
After the initial shock of the photo, which may be incentive enough for some to enter a race....I like to support races when possible that are local, supporting a cause I believe in, have starts or at least recognize WALKERS and the icing on the cake - great location or prizes!
We have done the Terry Fox Run since 1988. In 1989 my daughter was in a jogging stroller, and she was 6 months old and a stroller like that was very unique at the time and we always got our picture taken in the local paper. Then in '91, we borrowed another for my 10mth old and did it with two joggers and another pic in the paper....Now in 2008 it is so good to see so many families on bikes/wagons/rollerblades that it is no longer a photo op to see families out supporting such a great inspiration as Terry Fox each year.
What an amazing experience this race must have been for you. I guess we can say that some Frenchmen are just a bunch of bums.
C'est la vie et vivre la difference!
Ok, that photo made me laugh out loud. Only in France!
Good luck to Myra's big finish - sorry I can't be there.
I, too, am a big fan of Terry Fox's. He grew up in my neighborhood and my sister teaches at his old high school. A wonderful role model. I've never done a Terry Fox run, as I've never been a walker or a runner until now. I will definitely sign up for the next one in his home town. That would be cool.
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