Carry the Memory

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 NKJV

In an extraordinarily sad social media post, shared yesterday by the 2026 Cocodona 250 Mile race organization, it was announced that a runner passed away on Tuesday, May 5, during the event. And since ultra runners are a tight family, you can be sure that many were affected by this loss.

Details are limited, but the race organization has said that an unknown medical emergency occurred to a participant during the race. At this time, the race organization notes that it does not plan to release the runner’s name to respect their privacy.

“We are deeply saddened to share that a participant experienced a serious medical emergency today during the event and has passed away. The runner’s crew and family have been notified,” reads the May 5 social media post.

The Cocodona 250 Mile is a 253-mile race taking place in the Arizona desert and mountains, stretching between Black Canyon City and Flagstaff. The 2026 edition began on Monday, May 4, and ends on Saturday, May 9. Runners have 125 hours to cover the course, which has over 38,000 feet of climbing, and covers a mixture of singletrack, doubletrack, some technical sections, and a bit of tarmac around the towns through which it passes. This year’s race had on the order of 400 participants in its 250-mile event, and many more across the event’s five races, ranging from 40 to 250 miles, during the week-long festival. It is not clear from the announcement which race the runner was participating in.

The organization says the race will continue in honor of the fallen runner. Its announcement reads: “We ask all participants and crew to carry the memory of this runner with you on the trail.”

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, our next breath isn’t guaranteed and even the fittest of runners can succumb to an untimely death. This is the reason that, as believers, we should live in such a way that if others were to “carry the memory” of us after our passing, they would be leading others to Jesus.

What does that mean exactly? Well… as defined: “Carrying the memory” of another person is to keep a person alive in your heart and mind after they are gone by embodying their values, lessons, or kindness in your own life. In other words, to “carry the memory” of someone else is to accept the relay baton they have passed to you and to continue running the race in the same way the person you’re honoring ran.

This was something Paul intimated to Timothy when he knew his time of death was near and said, “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”

“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1

Paul’s life could be summed up in that one sentence… I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. To “carry the memory” of Paul’s life for Timothy (and for us) then, meant Timothy was to follow his example in the same way Paul followed the example of Jesus.

“Are they ministers of Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one.  Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;  in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness—  besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.” 2 Corinthians 11:23-38

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:37

This example included an astonishing series of dangers and indignities. Even in these trials and tribulations, Paul remained faithful and proclaimed his victory in Christ—all the while refusing to compromise or back down. Paul fought hard and continued running with endurance until he reached his final finish line.

“But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.” 2 Timothy 4:17

“Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” 2 Timothy 6:6-8

And Paul not only ran with the staying power needed to make it to the end, but ran in such a way that he was able to complete all that Jesus had charged and empowered him to do, all while displaying a remarkable sense of fulfillment, trust, and contentment that every believer would do well to model.

So, knowing that the date of our departure is uncertain, let us all vow to “carry the memory” of Paul who “carried the memory” of Jesus in such a way that on the day we are called home, we can take hold of the “crown of righteousness”— something we do by living in such a way that if people imitated us, they would be imitating Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that life is fragile at best. Lord, we pray for the family of the fallen runner that they might have the peace that only You can give. Lord, I ask that You use this tragedy to inspire those who read about it or who witnessed it to place their trust in You, if they haven’t already. Help us to live a life worthy of imitating Lord so that we might one day soon enter into Your rest. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

 
Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Run for Your Mental Health

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let's get started by talking about mental health and the role running plays in improving it. This is an important topic since statistics say that one in five people experience mental illness. And this is a great time to address it since May is National Mental Health Awareness Month in America. Since 1949, May has been a time to reduce the stigma behind mental health, educate the public on mental health, and support those with mental health conditions. 

This year’s theme (according to Mental Health America) — More Good Days, Together — encourages us all to reflect on what a “good” day looks like, both for ourselves, and for our communities. Together, they say, we can use that insight to connect people to the right support at the right time, and shape advocacy, education, and community engagement to make more good days possible for all.


And a good day, if you ask me, starts with a run. And the together part shows that group runs make for a great start to good days too!


But, hey, whether you like to run alone or with a group, there are so many mental benefits that come from lacing up regularly. And remember, running is running... whether you run a 5-minute mile or a 15-minute mile, the "Runner's High," aka the feeling runners experience when those feel-good chemicals are emitted as a result of sustained and consistent movement, can be had by everyone.


This is great news since the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrin improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. Regular running also increases cognitive function, boosts self-esteem, and improves sleep quality. Even 15–20 minutes of moderate running can improve mood and brain resilience. That's great news right???


As someone who started running decades ago to cope with stress and depression, I will tell you that if I could bottle up all the benefits of running and sell it, I would be a multi-billionaire. There are just that many physical, emotional, spiritual, and of course, mental benefits that come from running, especially when you take the run outdoors.

Without further ado then, check out these perks of running and some tips on maximizing their effectiveness.

Key Mental Health Benefits of Running:

• Reduction in Anxiety and Depression: Running acts as a natural antidepressant, with studies showing it can be as effective as antidepressants for some, and helps to reduce symptoms of anxiety. 
• Group running has an even added benefit as it provides the support system and friendship many people are lacking—in this way it combats the isolation that leads to depression. There's a reason why people refer to group runs as "cheap therapy" and why they continue to show up for them. 
• Stress Reduction: It lowers stress hormones and increases neurological resilience. Running increases a person's grit or staying power which is a key component in learning to view obstacles as stepping stones rather than stressors. 
• "Runner’s High":This is the euphoric state caused by a surge of chemicals and results in a feeling of pleasure and calmness. This feeling can last for some time, thereby improving mood and sustaining a sunnier outlook.
• Improved Brainpower and Memory: Running supports hippocampal function, which is crucial for memory and learning, and can improve cognitive function. This improved cognitive function allows a runner to think more clearly and problem solve more effectively, thereby reducing stress and depression.  

• Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Setting and achieving running goals enhances self-worth. Ask anyone who's crossed a finish line! Here's where the group run comes in again... many people who lack the self-esteem and confidence to attempt a solo run will build it by crossing the finish line as part of a team and then go on to do something bigger. Running has that kind of power! 
• Better Sleep: Regular, moderate running can significantly improve sleep quality and fight insomnia. 

Tips for Maximizing Mental Benefits:

• Go Outdoors: Running outside, particularly in nature, offers greater mood-boosting benefits than indoor treadmill running. This is a proven scientific fact. The great outdoors amplifies the benefits of running. That’s why so many people are drawn to the Bass Pro Fitness Series of events.  
• Be Consistent: Regular exercise is more effective than sporadic exercise. Even 15-30 minutes several times a week can make a drastic difference in a person's mental health. 
• Avoid Over-training: Running too hard can decrease the sense of well-being, so finding a balance is key. Finding this balance leads to a sense of achievement which leads to self confidence which leads to better mental health!
• Enjoy It: Focusing on positive feelings and enjoying the process makes it more likely you will experience a "runner's high." And here's the best part. The more you enjoy running, the more you'll do it. And the more you do it, the better your mental health will be.

And there you have it friends. There are so many benefits to adopting a routine of running. So make a goal, grab a friend, and get out there. Your mind and body will thank you. Happy Running!

Proudly Own It

"But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear." Philippians 1:12-14 NKJV

“Yesterday’s race was the most technical race I have done so far. Lots of climbing, almost 6,000 feet, tons of roots and rocks. I had one good fall, but nothing major. But I’m now the proud owner of my 5th DNF at 50 miles and a beautiful medal. I’m not upset at all. The last time I was on a trail like this was a few years ago when I was injured at Possums Revenge. I do know I could have gone the full distance, it was just a timing issue and that definitely makes me happy that my training was better than I thought. I think I’m still a bit scared of serious falls and it’s something I’m working on…”

These were some of the words written by my dear friend and sister in Christ, Pamela, after having to bow out of a 100 mile race midway over the weekend. Now while many people might have gotten upset about this turn of events, Pamela chose to embrace the disruption in her plans. In fact, her reaction was so contrary to the way the majority of the world would react that I said this is the comments, “I love your attitude about the DNF. I’ve had my fair share of them, and I know that they always teach me something. Congrats on a good run!”

Pamela's response? "It was something else for sure. I feel like I have grown so much since I started running ultras 9 years ago. I think you work harder when you are fighting a DNF than when you actually finish a race." To which I replied, " I could not agree with you more. There’s so many emotions that go along with it. But I know one thing is certain. People are more prone to follow us when they see the way we handle our DNF then they ever do by the way we handle our victories." Pamela agreed and said that she had been praying the whole time.

Later, when I reached out to her to learn more about her experience of the DNF (Did Not Finish), she said, "As of late my new prayer everyday has been 'Lord open my spiritual eyes, my ears, and Lord Your will be done and not mine'. I say this everyday before I start my prayers for other people... On my way up to the race we were talking and He knew I wanted to spend more time with Him while I was racing." She went on to detail just how that prayer was answered and how the answering of that prayer revealed the answering of some other prayers, which caused her to say, "Our Lord is so amazing!! He brings tears to my eyes just typing this. And that’s what makes this DNF special. He has shown me so much and I just can’t be unhappy about it. I love Him so much."

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people," Ephesians 1:18 NIV

Do you just love that or what? Pamela's experience illustrates the reason that every believer should be praying the same thing... "Lord, open my spiritual eyes, and my spiritual ears, and Lord, Your will be done, not mine." This was something that Paul actually prayed would happen to the members of the church at Ephesus when he wrote, "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.” Paul understood that many of the things of God (the workings and the redirections) can not be seen with physical eyes but only with spiritual ones.

Which is the very reason Paul, himself, was not upset at the change of circumstances that had led to his house arrest in Rome. Not only did the redirection allow him the time to write the books of Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon but Paul wanted it made known “that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

Paul was not only NOT unhappy about living in a rented house for two years while awaiting trial before Caesar Nero (after appealing his case to Rome to avoid a conspiracy against his life by Jewish leaders in Jerusalem), Paul proudly owned his chains!

Why? Because he could see through his spiritual eyes that God‘s hand was all over it and that his chains were actually serving to further the gospel! You see, this imprisonment allowed Paul to preach to people (his captors) who would never have heard the Good News otherwise. 

Furthermore, this ‘setback’ gave him the opportunity to write the “prison epistles” that literally changed the world. The overwhelming joy and unwavering faith Paul showed, despite his “failure,” helped other believers grow in boldness to speak about Christ and spread the gospel despite their own failures! Pretty awesome, right?

This is the very reason that every believer must pray, “Lord, enlighten the eyes of my heart…” each and every day. But let us not stop there. Let us then pray for the boldness to step out and do whatever it is God is calling us to do, no matter how hard or how crazy it might sound, knowing that our success is not measured by achieving our will but by doing His will.

So, don’t get upset or frazzled when things don’t go your way my friend. Look up instead and say, “Lord, open the eyes of my heart and help me to be a willing vessel to be used in whatever way You see fit to further the gospel.”

Heavenly Father, thank You using ordinary people to further the Gospel who simply pray to be used. Cause us to pray every day to see things through a spiritual lens that we might not get frustrated by the detours and disappointments of the world but trust they are a part of Your plan to advance the gospel. Help us to remain joyful in all situations, whether we cross the finish line or we don’t, that others might see that our joy is not found in worldly accomplishments but found in fulfilling your will. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus amen.

Happy Running!

Dress For Success

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Colossians 3:12-14 NIV

In an entertaining story published yesterday titled “Canfield runner completes Pittsburgh marathon in potato costume,” it was reported that a local runner took part in the 2026 DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon on Sunday as a part of the Speedy Spuds dressed for Potatoes USA.

Anna Luongo of Canfield donned her potato costume and took to the course during the half-marathon, surrounded by 25 other runners who did the same.

Luongo was picked from a nationwide applicant pool and says she has carbs, community and Heinz ketchup running through her veins.

"The Pittsburgh Half Marathon did not disappoint,” Luongo stated. “Fueled with mashed potatoes on the course and the energy from the crowd was unmatched. So thankful for the incredible opportunity to run as a speedy spud this beautiful Sunday morning.”

Along with her fellow Speedy Spuds, the 26 potato team represents the 26 grams of carbohydrates found in a medium-sized skin-on potato.

Potatoes USA is a national marketing and research organization focused on strengthening the demand for potatoes nationwide.

According to a news release, this was the largest known coordinated potato costume running event in American history.

Wow, right? I would definitely consider their marketing campaign a win. I mean, who wouldn’t want to eat a potato after watching 26 runners dressed like spuds run 13.1 miles and cross the finish line? In that way, you could definitely say they were dressed for success.

And you know, in the same way, what believers wear matters. Now we aren’t marketing a “product” per se, but we are promoting the eternal benefits of following Jesus Christ by what we say and what we do.

And one of the best ways we can do this is to clothe ourselves “with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” bearing with each other and forgiving one another as the Lord forgave us. And, then, after we’ve done all that… over all these virtues, we put on love, “which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

What does that mean exactly? Well, it means we must first remember that we are “God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved.” This designation means that these virtues are not meant to earn God's love, but are a natural response to being loved by Him already.

Then we are to remember that this “changing of clothes” (putting off the old self and putting on the new) describe the practical, daily adoption of five core virtues that are contrary to the attitudes of the world: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues, that should be clearly seen by our speech and behavior, symbolize the change that Jesus Christ has made in our lives—a change that’s so amazing that it should make others want to experience this change for themselves.

"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

Furthermore, this new clothing, or new way of life, also allows us to forgive one another when conflicts arise, modeling the otherworldly forgiveness God granted us. God loved us while we were still sinners and commands us to love others in the same way. That is not worldly behavior!

Finally, love is described as the final layer ("over all these virtues") that acts as a belt or binding agent, bringing all other virtues together in perfect harmony. This love has the power to inspire the lost to seek the One who inspires it in us!

So, be sure to dress for success every day my friend by clothing yourself with the virtues that will cause the lost to seek the Lord. It’s the best way to promote and glorify the One who has the power to transform lives.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, as believers, we are called to be set apart in everything that we say and do. Help us to clothe ourselves every day with the virtues that show we are followers of You so that others would be inspired to follow You as well. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus, amen. 

Happy Running!

Nothing Secret is Concealed From God

“There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.” Luke 12:2-3

In a story titled “Scientology "speed running" trend prompts church to remove door handles from its Hollywood buildings” it was reported that the Church of Scientology removed door handles from its Hollywood locations after viral "speed running" videos were filmed inside the buildings by masked activists who forced their way past security.

Runners, many of whom are masked, some of whom are wearing costumes, sprint past security through hallways and stairs until they're kicked out of the buildings.

"Trying to unlock as much as we can of the 'map' — is what they call it, to see what they have hidden," said one runner, who did not want to share her name. "Because they keep it very strict in there. You can't see anything up above. It's very secret and we want to know what it is all about."

She added that the trend is all about protest and exposure, hoping to get answers to what they believe is an effort by the Church of Scientology to conceal what they're doing.

"The public wants to know what's in there, what they are hiding," she said. "Why are they being so aggressive towards opening up about the truth?"

And, you know, the Church of Scientology (which is a false church and a false religion) is not the only “church” or organization that is hiding, or secretive about, their dealings, doings, and doctrine. There are thousands of false churches around our world today that are equally as aggressive towards opening up about the truth of what they represent because their theology, morality, and methodology are anything but holy and God-honoring. Hence the reason for secrecy. 

Two things are certain though, nothing is secret from God and “there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” In fact, what people have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what they have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs… no matter how much they try to hide it. 

This means all secret sins, hypocritical actions, and quiet disobedience will eventually be exposed in the final judgment. This serves as a reminder that God sees everything--something, you can be sure, is good news for some and bad news for others.

So, while it may appear that evil people, organizations, and agendas will continue to prosper and not be exposed, the Bible is very clear that nothing is truly hidden or concealed. There is coming a day when all will be exposed and judgment rendered. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that, while it may appear that evil has no consequences, we know that You see everythingand will one day reward the righteous for their obedience and punish the unrighteousness for their disobedience. Help that to give us hope when we look at our world today, knowing that You are still on the throne and still in control. It’s in your precious name. We pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Be Prepared and Willing to Step In

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;” 1 Peter 3:15 NKJV

In a story published yesterday by The Marlow Review, the following was reported:

In a heroic act of compassion and courage, Chadell Atkinson, a registered nurse and Marlow resident, played a pivotal role in saving a fellow runner's life during the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon this past weekend.

As runners made their way through the grueling course, one participant suddenly collapsed, prompting immediate concern among those nearby. Without hesitation, Atkinson and an Oklahoma City firefighter, who was also racing, rushed to the scene. Together, they performed life-saving CPR until emergency medical personnel arrived.

Thanks to their quick actions, the collapsed runner regained a pulse and was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. After ensuring the runner received help, Atkinson demonstrated remarkable resilience by continuing to complete her own marathon.

The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of being prepared and willing to step in during emergencies. Atkinson’s bravery and commitment to her fellow runners highlight the spirit of community and support that the marathon embodies.

"And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire." Revelation 20:15

" He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.'" John 3:36

And, you know, when it comes to being “prepared and willing to step in” during emergencies, the most urgent and dire situation we could ever find a person in is the state of unbelief. You see, while most people think death is the end, death is truly only the beginning—since a person will either spend eternity in heaven or in hell after their final breath here... a decision that's determined by the choice they make before they die to either accept Jesus as their Savior or to reject Him. 

This is the very reason that every believer must "sanctify the Lord God" in their hearts and "always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks" them a reason for the hope that is in them, "with meekness and fear." This call to "always be ready" is a reminder that the opportunity to tell someone about the hope of the resurrection and eternal life that's found only in Jesus Christ might come unexpectedly and might only come once. 

Because of this, every believer must be prepared to speak about their faith, knowing that their testimony and transformed life will provoke further questions. In turn, they must be prepared to give a rational, spoken reason for their faith, based on biblical facts and not just their feelings. 

Furthermore, the tone of our sharing is critical. We must be humble and respectful, rather than aggressive or argumentative, always remembering that this spiritual CPR (think Critical explanation of your Personal Relationship), if done right, has the power to save a person's soul. 

So, be ready and willing to step in when you see someone in need of spiritual CPR my friend. Doing so could very well determine where that person spends eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the way that we live is very important since our total devotion to You, in the easy times and especially in the hard times, is one of the very things that compels unbelievers to ask us about the hope we have that’s only found in You. Help is to be ready and all times to answer their questions in such a way that the lost are compelled to seek You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - What We Can Learn From a Pro

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog

Now let’s get started by talking about what happened over the weekend. Not only did the Frisco Railroad Run take place (one of my all time favorites) but the London Marathon took place as well. 

And while OMRR reported some fast marathon finish times (as well as other distances), no one was as fast as Sebastian Sawe—who crossed the finish line of the London Marathon in 1:59:30. Sawe not only broke last year’s record but became the first person to ever run 26.2 miles in less than two hours. Wow, right? 

Now, before we get into what we can learn from Sabastian, let’s remember that, while training like a pro can make us faster, every person has their “fast” limit based on the way the good Lord made them. Elite runners, like Sawe, generally have a higher VO2 Max, possess a higher percentage of Type 1 (slow-twitch) muscle fibers (which are highly resistant to fatigue), and often have larger left ventricles and superior lung function, allowing for greater blood and oxygen circulation. Science shows that elite runners also show biomechanical superiority in many ways. But to sum it up, elite athletes such as Sawe were born to run, and to run fast. 

Other runners, like myself, were born to run too…. Just not as fast. But that’s okay. After all, running success, at the end of the day, isn’t only measured by the number on the clock but by the joy, friendships, and sense of accomplishment running brings. Not to mention the million other benefits that come from running; like a clearer mind, seeing new sunrises, and earning that iced coffee and extra slice of pizza. 

With that being said, all of us can learn a lot from elite runners such as Sawe, and the elite runners can learn a lot from us average runners as well. 

What exactly can we learn from Sawe? Well…. A quick AI search fetched these results: 

Sabastian Sawe’s historic sub-two-hour marathon (1:59:30) teaches that peak human performance results from blending relentless hard work, mental discipline, and humility with scientific advancements in fueling and footwear. His journey highlights the importance of consistency, simplicity, and running clean.

Key Lessons from Sabastian Sawe:

Discipline and Patience: Sawe emphasizes that "talent, with hard work, discipline and patience," is key to unlocking big achievements. He advocates for consistency, even rising from humble beginnings with minimal resources to reach the top.

Embrace Modern Technology and Science: Sawe credits his record-breaking success to advanced, lightweight Adidas footwear and specialized carbohydrate-based fueling strategies that optimize performance.

The Power of Simplicity: Despite being a global superstar, Sawe keeps his life and nutrition simple, such as eating simple meals like bread and honey before races, proving that basic, effective habits can support elite performance.

Run Clean and Promote Integrity: Sawe strongly advocates for anti-doping, urging increased testing to ensure a fair playing field and to prove that success can be achieved clean.

Belief and Preparation: Sawe's mantra, "I didn't believe, but I was well prepared," (not quite sure what that means but it apparently works for him) shows that intensive preparation builds the confidence needed to break barriers.

Stay Humble and Positive: His coach describes him as having positive energy and being exceptionally humble, demonstrating that kindness and humility can accompany top-tier talent.

And what can elite runners learn from average runners? First of all, that there's more of us than there are of them. Secondly, we all put on our shoes one foot at a time so humility fits us all well. And lastly, every mile, whether it’s slow or fast, is a gift to be treasured and celebrated. 

So, let us be thankful for every finish line friends. Whether we come in first, somewhere in the middle, or even dead last, we are all blessed to run. And for that, we should celebrate like the elites do with signature dances, huge smiles, fancy hand signals, and eating our favorite post race food. 

On that note, if you had running success over the weekend (however you define success) won't you tell us about it in the comment section so we can celebrate with you? By God's grace, I completed the 50 mile run at Frisco Saturday and went home with an awesome buckle and the award for being old and not dying (aka the Grand Master Female award) out on the course. I'd say that's not too bad for a day of running with amazing friends and treating running like a second job. While it was hard, every mile truly was a blessing and I can't wait for Dogwood Canyon and Bass Pro's Marathon Weekend to do it all over again! Are you signed up? 

 Happy Running!