43rd

Friday we went to Twistee Treat, like we always do, and our order came out the drive thru window, like it always does (without ordering).

The friendly Twistee Treat employee, Lori (may or may not be her real name), asked, “How’d it go?”

We’ve been going to Twistee Treat for four years and Lori was always there on Mondays and Fridays.  For the past year or so though, Lori has a different schedule, we rarely see her.

Quickly, my brain started working overtime to remember what Lori was referring to.  Nothing.

So I sort of embarrassingly asked Lori, “How’d what go?”

“The track meet.”

Then it hit me.  I gave Lori a Lane 8 business card at some point and must have described the Lane 8 vision.  You know, “If your goal isn’t impossible….I don’t care if I get the worst lane and come in last.”

Because I’ve had time to process, and have overcome the reluctance to just spit it out, I was able to come right out with it, “Forty-third.  In the world.”

“There were 5,300 athletes from 80 different countries.  In my event (400m) alone, there were 63 athletes aged 50-54.  Eight of them were Americans.  Seven made it to the semi-finals.  I was the one that didn’t.”

43rd. In the whole world.  Ya with me?

World Record 400 Meters Video Story

Here is the video story of the fastest 400 meters ever run.

It was done at the 1999 World Track & Field Championships, in Seville, by Michael Johnson.

By the way, Michael Johnson currently holds the world records in both the 200 & 400.

While none of us will ever break a world record, we might ask ourselves, “Have I given it my all?  Have I done my very best.  Do I have any regrets?

Carpe diem, jeff noel  🙂

The Whole reason this is so Important

Derek Redmond was favored to win the 400 meters at the 1992 Olympics.  This video clip shows that no matter what the obstacles before you, you should still try to finish the race.  Never give up.

Derek Redmond 1992 Barcelona Olympics

There comes a point in life, I believe, when we are faced with a tough decision.

But the toughness isn’t apparent.  It’s not life-threatening.  It’s not going to make us rich.  It’s not the end of the world emotionally if it doesn’t happen.  But happen it must.

If you didn’t click on Derek Redmond video clip above, you will probably regret it.  

Live with no regret.  That’s what this video and post is about.  if I have to explain it to you any further, you won’t ever understand it.  

Carpe diem, jeff noel, out in Lane 8.  🙂

Michael Johnson 1996 Olympic 400m Finals

Michael Johnson in the 1996 Olympic 400m FinalsWatch the clip here.

This is the same race I run, 400 meters.

Many Track & Field enthusiasts say that the 400 is the sports toughest event.

While many Baby Boomers are running 5k’s, 10k’s, half-marathons and full-marathons, I’m running one lap – 400 meters. 

That’s almost absurd.

Until you step on the track as a 50-year old and try to run one lap in 55 seconds.

Make it a great day.  Life is full of surprises.  I hope today, for you, they are good surprises.  Carpe diem, jeff noel  🙂

USATF website

USATF = United States Track & Field.  Everything from our US Olympic Team, US World Team, plus Collegiate, Masters and High School meets, athletes, training, etc., are found here.

Here’s the Home page for the 2009 World Championships – USA Master’s World Team

I’m making final logistical preparations to attend.

My training is slowly getting faster and more intense.  That part really is exciting. 

However, I still can’t shake the left heel pain.   That part isn’t really exciting.

Now, when it’s really difficult, is the time I get the most pressure to find an excuse to give up.

But I can’t give up.  Instead, I rested today.   And spent the work day in Jury Duty.

Keep your head up, as difficult as it may be.   Your health is too important to quit.  Do something healthy and carpe diem, jeff noel  🙂