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Discussion: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon
Subject: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Mark P. Written on: 2006-05-26 02:03:26 Message: How about it?!?!
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Larry P. Written on: 2006-05-27 19:32:48 Message: My first marathon, OK Mark you've seen me run and you know I've never had a typing lesson. You just keep pushing. Since I was a teenager I've been interested in long distance running. My chosen lifestyle kept me a safe distance off of the tracks but interest never faded. After my motorcycle was stopped by an SUV that backed out in my path I had a broken body to heal. Mark was there from the other side of the country. I was determined to walk without crutches. I kept trying to walk unassisted outdoors in the parking lot of the rehabilitation center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Soon the treadmill and then an aid-free walk. After my release I was walking everyday, ice & snow what a winter in Michigan. I started logging my miles on Ontri's site as an aid to keep track of my workouts and any improvements. My jogging was very short distance and very dangerous. Falling concerned me but soon spring had me logging some miles. The first 12 months I ran 1000 miles and Mark made me an offer I couldn't refuse. Asking me to run a marathon was a dream that could come true if I kept working. Now I had a real goal and I started running hard instead of just logging miles. Daily e-mails or phone calls and I was calling Mark "Coach" and he was a good coach. We had registered early the race and Cleveland was on my mind every moment. You see my two daughters live near Cleveland and we would be staying with one while the same day as the marathon my youngest daughter was graduating from college. So much in one weekend. Mark and I found a parking lot near the starting line and the run in the rain made me want to get started. I'm glad the weather was bad early. We picked our estimated time and took off side by side. Mark was running my race and wouldn't increase his speed even after I ask. We ran, walked and talked together the entire race. The nights I lay awake while he was a Marine in the Gulf war seemed so distant. Now he is running beside me offering ideas, encouragement and humor. I had never been past 20 miles and kept my pace as close as I could. I wanted that finish. The wind was stealing energy I was saving for the last few miles. Other contestants were chatting with us as we met on the course. I was positive I would finish if I kept my pace. I wish I could put into words the feelings I experienced running toward the finish line and crossing. Never had I thought about what do you do when your so darn happy and proud. Mark right at my side and not a care in the world. Looking back I had completely healed, none of my nagging aches and pains existed I was so happy. The graduation and party afterward went as well as the marathon. That was one of the best days of my life. Thanks to Mark, Lynn, my daughters and all of the people on this site. I read your postings almost daily and utilize any tips that I think will improve my running. Yes we will do this again and Mark will run his race.
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Jonny F. Written on: 2006-05-27 20:36:47 Message: Larry, Congratulations! That is a fantastic story. I ran my first marathon last year with my brother by my side the entire time. It was fantastic and we're going back for more this fall...Chicago I think. With your permission, I'd like to post your story on www.ontri.com/news.html with other member stories. Best, Jon Finegold founder, ontri.com
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Dan W. Written on: 2006-05-27 22:48:32 Message: Wow, Larry, that' s incredible! You're very fortunate to have what it takes to keep it going - and to have someone like Mark along the way. Congratulations.
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Ronald F. Written on: 2006-05-28 12:45:33 Message: Life is full of challenges and you met yours head on in more ways than one. The friends that we make along the way are among the greatest gifts in life. Congratulations on meeting your friend and accomplishing your first marathon goal. Ron
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Jon F. Written on: 2006-05-30 17:27:37 Message: Larry - your story is now up on www.ontri.com/news.html for all to see - thank you for sharing and keep up the great work! -Jon
Subject: RE: Larry P - tell us about your first marathon By: Jael A. Written on: 2006-05-30 17:46:50 Message: Larry, what an amazing story!.... My eyes got watery as I read it.... I am at loss for words...you are an inspiration.... Congratulations to you and Mark both for completing it, and especially you for finding the strength within you when everyone else was doubting....I will remember your story as long as I live... Thank you for allowing us to read your incredible saga...may you and Mark do many more races together and continue a friendship that very few people can experience in a lifetime. My best wishes to the both of you, Jael
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