The Myth of the Real Runner
If you run, you are a runner
“I often hear someone say ‘I’m not a real runner.’ We are all runners, some just run faster than others. I never met a fake runner.”
– Bart Yasso
Although I haven’t been able to due to injury, I love to run. If I could get paid to do it, I would sign up immediately. But I’ve found there aren’t too many people looking to sponsor a 48-year-old non-elite runner. Maybe I haven’t looked hard enough but they aren’t beating down my door either.
I started running seriously about four years ago so I am a fairly new runner. But running has transformed me. It’s hard to explain to someone who doesn’t run but it can be life-changing.
Running is therapy for me. On my long runs where I’m out there for several hours, it is a physical and mental release. It is one way I use to help my mental health. When I’m running, everything goes away. I can enjoy the scenery of the mountains and desert and be by myself without any distractions. It is the most incredible feeling.
I also love to compete in local races. I’ve done half-marathons, a marathon, an ultra, and many other 5ks and 10ks with a few others in between.
