Category: The (World) Championships

Lahti, Finland

Lahti, Finland.  August 2009.  Master’s Track & Field World Championships.  Men’s 50-54 age-group, 400 meters.  Lane 8.

Lane 8?

You ask a great question.  Why would anyone strive for lane 8?

It’s the lane the slowest contestant uses.  Most would say it’s the worst lane to be in.

Yes, and…..

The finals!

To be in lane 8, in the finals of the world championships would mean to be in the top 8 in the entire world.

Now does it make more sense?

This morning’s run was 25 minutes of slow jogging.  The first mile, there was some noticeable pain in my left heel.  Not enough to stop running, but enough to keep me from saying, “I feel great!”

Just sent an email to the Sales team in Lahti, Finland to inquire about accomodations near the track stadium.

Nervous. Excited.  Hopeful.  Humble.

Make it a GREAT day, because if you don’t, who will?  Carpe diem, jeff noel  🙂

Why the World Championships?

Why do I have this crazy dream of running in Lane 8, in the 400 meter finals (Men 50-54), at the 2009 Master’s Track & Field World Championships?

I don’t know exactly.

There are several factors:

1.  Hereditary high cholesterol.

2.  I get bored easily.

3.  I have a tendancy to dream BIG!

4.  I’d like to live to see our eight-year old son graduate High School in ten years.

5.  It’s absolutely impossible!

There, I said it.

It IS impossible.

Yes, and….

The only reason it’s impossible is because the odds say so.

After a decade of obstacles, simply to get and stay healthy, I’ve come to realize that the hard work and the time commitment, have elevated my running from ordinary to something unexpected – extraordinary.

So, while I’m healthy and motivated, I’d like to revisit a childhood dream of being an Olympian.  Thank you Randy Paush (The Last Lecture), for the permission to hold onto childish dreams.

Dream big.  Get there.  Stay there.

Make it a great day, because if you don’t, who will?  Carpe diem.  🙂