Category Archives: running

Only a Half

I signed up for Saturday’s Nashville Rock ‘N Roll half marathon, but I am not able to go. I was packed, trained and ready, but life and work got in the way. No big deal – it’s only a half. No need to drive seven hours to run 13.1 miles – I ran that three weeks ago in Valparaiso.

But in Valpo on April 6th, there were no live bands at every mile. There were no “Spirit Stations”, cheer teams, dance squads, announcers, clocks, and splits. There were no runners wearing cowboy hats, Elvis Presley jumpsuits, and Dolly Parton wigs. No high fives, guitars strapped to backs, “Run, Forrest, Run!” posters, and Long Live Boston apparel. No crowds, no comrades, no brides, no rock stars, no country-western twang, no medals, and no post-race concert.  No Expo with running gear, neon shoelaces, 13.1 car stickers, and self-massage tools.   No water stops, goo packets, electrolyte cubes, and gobs of Vaseline. No strangers who became fast friends as we shared our lives and our dreams as we wiled away the miles. No final burst at the end. No finish line.

Instead, I had my dog Watson with me. And he was enough. After all, it’s only a half. When did I become a marathon snob?