A New Goal in Mind

Ever heard the saying, "If you aim at nothing, you're bound to hit it"?  That's a bit how I feel about my running.  I add running to my weekly routine, but don't really have a goal in mind.  It's been several years since I participated in an official race.  Why?  Well, they take commitment.  Life has been so unpredictable that I didn't want to tie myself down to a firm training schedule.  Sounds good right?  Truth is, I've been lazy...

So, no more!  I'm motivated again and I'm going to have you keep me accountable.  I've got my eye on the Windward Half Marathon that will be on September 11, 2011.  Although I have done a couple of half marathons before, I haven't done this one.  The one's I've done have been on the Waikiki side of the island.  This race is right in my own backyard.  No more excuses.  I have all summer to train...

This is the first week of a Hal Higdon, 12-week training schedule I found.  I'm trying to improve my last time, so I've chosen a plan that includes some speed work.  This will be a first for me.  My plan is (Lord willing) to do the regular running days in Kailua, and do the speed work on my treadmill.  That way I can measure the 400s easily. 

Wanna join me?  You may not be able to make it to the Windward Half on Oahu, but I bet you can find something in your area.  It doesn't have to be a half.  What about a 5K to start?  Maybe you're ready for a full marathon!  Whatever it is, lets start together! 

In the spirit of openness, I must confess that I missed my first day of running on this plan.  We had just returned from a weekend camping trip that wiped me out.  That's how life is sometimes, but I wont be deterred!  It's not about following the letter of the training schedule, it's about moving toward the goal.  I'm firmly committed this time.  I wont let this unpredictable life be my reason for quitting! 

Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs,

but only one person gets the prize?

So run to win!  All athletes are disciplined in their training.

They do it to win a prize that will fade away,

but we do it for an eternal prize. 

So I run with purpose in every step.

I am not just shadowboxing. 

I discipline my body like an athlete,

training it to do what it should.

Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others

I myself might be disqualified.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)



There are many reasons that I run. Physically, I want to keep fit and need the stress release. But the best benefit I get from running is time alone with God. Being out in His creation, I feel His presence. When I run, I learn so many spiritual lessons. I hope to share those here as well.