WHERED IT GO

I have been trying understand where the time went or why I ever quit running. It must be, at least ten years have passed and no running. When I say running, I am not a real runner. In high school I tried it and wasn´t very impressed with what I could do so it never went anywhere. Besides, as kids we were always doing tumbling, weight lifting, hand to hand balancing all day long so it wasn´t as if there was no energy expenditure. We never stopped moving from morning to night, so I developed a high degree of endurance for long distance without being aware of it. Six years of running a water ski school, teaching it and competition gave me even more endurance since I was out on the water at sun-up until it was almost too dark to see, providing there were no students.

With all the requirements of raising a family, job and finally starting a campground and marina along with a regular full time job, I managed to squeeze in jogging when I reached the age of 40 . I was even out in absolutely freezing temperatures doing my jogging in the campground. Such is my usual dedication to things – good or bad. When I reached the age between 55 & 60 I ran three marathons. One of them I finished 1200 out of over 3600 others. No big deal maybe, but my best time was 3 hours 55 minutes and they took a picture at the finish line to prove it. I loved the sport and really lived it to the fullest.

Again, why was I side tracked for so long even though I still went to the gym? Well regardless of the reason or reasons, I find it very hard to believe that yesterday, the 27th of July, 2006, I finally got out of bed at 7:00 am before the sun is too hot and walked / jogged around the convention center here in Acapulco. Fortunately I live across the street from this huge building and it is one mile +/- to complete the trip around the block. One thing is certain, there is plenty of company with many other fellow joggers doing their morning constitutional.

The feeling of accomplishment is well worth the effort expended, especially after so many years of inactivity. It is healthy and from the reading I do, any form of exercise strengthens the immune system which is all important.

I am really thankful that I am able to do once more what I enjoyed most as a physical activity.

By
Bruce Stokes

Changing LINKS