Marathon 2010-2011

I ran cross country and track in high school.  Specifically I was a distance runner.  I was one of those crazy people who could not run all that fast over short distances but did not mind torturing myself in the distance events on the track and in 5ks through the forests of Georgia and Alabama.  Then something unfortunate happened. I stopped running.

My problems began shortly after I graduated from High School.  In the fall of 1997 I started having trouble in my left knee.  I went to see a doctor and he diagnosed me with tendinitis in my left knee.  Not knowing what to do about this I stopped running in hopes this would go away.  As time went by I started putting on weight.  Sadly, there were no injuries to prevent me from putting forks, spoons, and various meats between two slices of bread directly into my mouth.  Over the years I have tried to get back into running but have been unsuccessful.

During my mission I got back into running a bit but not consistently.  The missionary schedule at the time did not have much time in it for exercise and I was kind of limited by what my companions were willing to do.  Over the years I have attempted to start running again but have failed.  I suspect it is due to lack of inspiration or a tangible goal.

 Now that I am 32 years old I have decided it is time to get back into it and this time make it stick.

My goal is to complete the Utah Valley Marathon.  My inspiration is my cousin Andrea.  Just a couple of weeks ago Andrea completed the UVM's half marathon.  What is even more amazing is Andrea has cerebral palsy and nearly half of her body is paralyzed.  As I watched her cross the finish line I thought this was something I should do.  No more excuses.

Running was something I loved and since I stopped running it is something I have missed.  I am very excited about hitting the roads and trails around here and getting ready for the UVM.