Running Really is a Team Sport

For years I played baseball and adult co-ed softball and I enjoyed being on a team. After a few years, I realized that the team is only as good as the weakest player. I was on a softball team that was more social than competitive, it was at that point I decided to stop playing all together.

I always thought running was a great individual sport, after all, who can you blame for failure, but yourself. Over the last 6 months or so, and throughout my training for the LA Marathon, I found that running really is a team sport. The friends I have made in the running/endurance sports communities are some of the best and most supportive people around.

Now that I have completed my first marathon (3/21/2010  5:14:14), I want to acknowledge the many people on my team...whether you knew you were or not. Without you, this would've not been possible.

 My Wife: she is the person that got me into exercising when I was lazy and fat, it was she that wanted to do the Disneyland Half Marathon in 2007 and when her friends flaked on her, she convinced me to do it with her. We will be doing Disneyland Half marathon #4 in September, going for our "Coast to Coast Challenge" medal. She has supported me in everything I have done and will continue to do in the future including a possible Ironman triathlon.

My Family and Friends (West Coast, East Coast and Texas) - they have been very supportive and my cheerleaders, even through tough times (injuries, my no drinking/cigar smoking until the marathon policy) you stood by me.

To Everyone at the ARC Run Club - my "dysfunctional running family", you make Thursday, the best day of the week.

My Twitter Peeps: There are so many but, these few are very special to me...Glenn - Thanks for all your words of wisdom!, Linda - Thank you for the pep talks and the support. Chris - You're an inspiration. Craig and the MT Gleason Runners - You and the kids are a great inspiration, thank you for letting be a part of  the group and for all of your advice and support.

Last, but definitely not least...

My Friend and Running Partner Melissa - You believed in me when no one else did! I always wanted to use that line after hearing it at the Academy Awards for so many years. :) Seriously, you have been an amazing friend and running partner, you have been a cheerleader and supporter and I have enjoyed the miles we have logged together and look forward to all of our future miles. You met at mile 20 of the LA Marathon, you ran with me and pushed me through the finish, even though I was calling you a few choice words in my head! In the end, it was all worth it, and I thank you!

Thank You!