Runners High! Am I a runner now?

Back in the day (high school and some college) I used to be part of the cross country and track teams.  I didn't really consider myself a runner cause I liked the sprints and jump events even though at the time I never thought I did them very well. That is if you don't include the several times I went to the State meet and finished on the podium, or the senior year relay team (4x800) where we broke the school record that had been there for over 15 years.  Maybe I should take that statement back about not being a runner.

In the past several years, say oh since 1995 I haven't run consistently nor have I done any mileage over a 5k distance.  I would say I have considered myself a pure cyclist since I don't do any of those other sports. Rightly so I was very focused on racing the past 2 years and just didn't have time for the "other" sports.  Since I have signed up for the triathlon next July I have been working diligently on bringing my run distance up and my goal is to be able to run a 10k before the end of the year.

This past two weeks of running have been quite interesting.  As I was beginning my runs i had the usual sluggish start, getting the body warmed up then I would fall into my groove.  The running was OK till I realized I don't have to think about cars hitting me or squirrels (of many varieties, cyclists know what I mean by this) running in front of me.  I'm out of danger, I can focus truly on what I am doing...running.  This focus has become a welcome place for me.  I have a busy life, work is 24-7 as I own my own business and well need i really say more.  Don't get me wrong I really LOVE cycling, but this running thing for me is different.  I went out this week with my iPod and well fell in love with running.

The distraction of the iPod was my way of being able to shut out the world around me, and to quiet the thoughts in my head of this client or that meeting, or this marketing idea or, or or...and just run. I would describe it as almost Zen like, its my new happy place, a place where I can get back in touch with myself and still cover some distance. :-)  My hope is that as my mile get longer and the runs get harder that this still stays true.  I will keep you posted.