Run YOUR Race

I share this as a high school runner whose name was always listed in the local newspaper among “those who also ran” —

Run Your Race by Anthony Frazier

This young boy impressed me. I witnessed his calmness, commitment and determination during his run at the River Valley Cross Country Meet. I must admit that when I saw this kid, he didn’t look like the typical runner. Much like summers and golfers, marathon runners and cyclist, they all seem to have a similar frame and demeanor. 

But this kid had what it takes. No he didn’t come in first or in the top three. But he actually demonstrated what Cross Country running is all about. He ran HIS race. 

We live in a culture where being first, second and third are celebrated. The fastest, the strongest, the toughest and so on. While that has its place, what’s most important is that kids learn at an early age to run their race.

They like us can often get caught up in expending so much energy to fit in, to measure up, and to be on top that they like us can lose ourselves. 

I remember growing up and hearing coaches say, It’s not a matter of winning or losing, just give it your best! No you don’t need a trophy for giving it your best or even finishing the race. But sports can and should teach us lessons on how to live our lives when the game clock shows zeros. 

It should teach us how to find our path, our passion and our pace. 
This young man ran HIS race amidst the team and it was a joy to watch. 

While I was walking around taking candid pictures I saw this young man just hanging out. He spoke to me and said hello. I could tell even from that brief interaction that this kid had a gentle soul. 

It was a joy to watch the kids competing today. They all appeared to be having fun and running THEIR own races. They were very encouraging of the other runners and showed much support when each running completed the run. 

This young man started and finished the race. He succeed and in turn reminded us all a valuable lesion. 

Life is a series of journeys and it’s important to run your own race at your own pace.

Any parent who raised kids knows the difference between the kid being the best or living their best life.

While we all waited for him to finish the race, the other runners began to gather and cheer. It was a powerful moment. Imagine what was going through this young kids mind. He was tired no doubt and I’m sure his body was saying, just stop, take a breath and relax. But he soldered on through the pain and finished. 

He may never know how many were inspired by his efforts or see the comments from this Facebook post. It’s also a reminder that when we do our best, and give out best, we actually can inspire others. Now isn’t that something to write about?

His coaches should be proud of him, his peers should be proud of him, watchers should be proud of him, family and friends should be proud of him. 

Kids have a wonderful and priceless way of teaching us all without even knowing that they did. 

Thank you young man. Thank you very much!

— and on behalf of BobH and a few others, a Thank You to Coach Armstrong for letting us enjoy the ride. Thank You very much!