No I’ve never actually been behind bars (or have I?). Today’s column refers to my ability to take scraps or leftovers and transform them into something pleasing and palatable. Growing up decidedly lower middle class and then raising 3 kids on a limited budget has taught me how to do wonders in the kitchen with little as a starting point. That is the sign of a Great Chef in my book. And it was this same approach that I imparted to my dear, sweet Allison who is now excelling at the Oregon Coast Culinary Academy. How proud I was to receive a text Wednesday night that she was the only student in her class to get a 100% on the mid term exam!
And the rough translation into running is this: I was never a pedigreed runner, didn’t have the accoutrements or trappings or privileges that would have suggested any degree of success at running. Started with a base that included only desire, a willingness to work hard, and the courage to dream and dare.
It’s been told before but is worth repeating that I once harboured aspirations of making the USA Olympic Trials Marathon, this when the standard was a mere 2:20:00 for men. And never got closer than 2:46, a minute per mile that may as well have been a 5 Star Michelin rating on the Avenue des Champs Elysees.
But without that key ingredient, that Ambition, that Hope, that Dream, I could have never achieved the modicum of success that was my reward for years of hard work. Looking back on that pr from 1995 it seems a lifetime ago, and an impossibility now that my old legs can’t maintain the same 6:20 pace for a 5K. But the Heart remains.
And that is the component that I look for in our Good Mates. I’ve seen very talented runners that didn’t possess that heart. I’ve seen less talented runners that have challenged themselves and risen to glory. Taking something ordinary and by deft, even intuitive manipulation, creating a palate of remarkable performances that are to be admired if not awed. Accomplishments built on dedication and persistence, all the more respected in my book because of humble beginnings. The Comfort Food of Performance, the feel good stories in our sport. Tasty stuff.
A fine November morning for the weekly Geezer Run. Carolyn, Linda, Angie and I had a nice, easy tour of the West loop after paying homage to Coach John Tully’s boot. We’re hoping it won’t be long before he is able to join us again for our gathering around Denny’s Pole.
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