In December 2007 I signed up to run do the Jingle Bell Run.  I had been walking with friends at LaFortune for about 2 1/2 years.  We would walk it 3-5 days a week and it would take us about 45 minutes.  When I signed up for the run, my intention was to run some and walk some, not thinking I would be able to run the whole way.  Well, to my surprise I was able to run the whole 5K.  I was hooked.  I started running on a regular basis from that point on.

 

After running for a few months on my own, I learned about the training Runner's World offered for the Tulsa Run.  I joined Runner's World to train for the 2008 Tulsa Run.  The training was going so well, I decided I would up my training to include enough mileage to do the Route 66 Half Marathon.  I did both runs and loved the atmosphere and sense of accomplishment.  I trained again for RW for the Oklahoma City Half.  Some of my friends had went on to do the Full, but the training was during a busy time at my work so I stayed with the half training. 

 

After seeing everyone train and then succeed at doing the Full Marathon, I new it was something I would have experience for myself, so I began training for the 2009 Route 66 Full Marathon.  It was a great race and I will remember that day always.

 

I have met so many people that are now my friends through the RW training programs. That is only one of the benefits of running with the group.  Other benefits for me, are having a schedule to follow, as I can tend to push myself to hard and that can lead to injury.  I also attended the nutrition class and Garmin class offered by Runner's World. I have learned a lot, and know there is more to learn and much more to accomplish.  It's amazing to me that they offer so much and there is no fee for their services.

 

My next pursuits are the New Orleans Rock N Roll Marathon in February and the Oklahoma City Marathon in April.  My hope is that I will remain healthy enough that running will always be a part of my life.