2nd Wind Motivation

First Hart to Heart Talk Show a Sell-Out

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:34:00 +0000

Thanks to my guests, sponsors and audience who made the "Gift of Fear" a magical night. See you November 16 for "An Attitude of Gratitude." Purchase tickets on the Hart to Heart Talk Show website.

To the reader from Triathlon Life Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 02:45:00 +0000

I accidently deleted an e-mail from an injured reader who responded to my article yesterday. Please accept my apologies and contact me again. I would like to discuss some strategies and suggest a particular book.

45th MARATHON with THE TRAINING STUDIO

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 22:58:00 +0000

This is the "Great Lakes" Marathon summer! After April's Duathlon Nationals in VA I returned to marathoning, which has always brought me joy. I ran the Bayshore Marathon in Traverse Bay, MI on May 23rd--- along Lake Michigan. On June 20th, I ran my 44th marathon---the Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, MN, winding along Lake Superior. I try to keep water in the scenery! On November 1, I am running the Marshall University Marathon in WV which finishes on the "We Are Marshall" football field. I watched the movie while riding my spin bike last week and cried through the whole thing! Dale Benedict (The Training Studio) is taking a group of runners that he has been training to this marathon, as well as several other fall marathons. On Saturday, I joined the group for the scheduled long run. I admit that though I was leary of the "walk break technique" they implement each mile, I am now a convert! Today, after my 20-miler, I feel fresh and energized. If you have ever wanted to run your first marathon or wish to improve a previous time, I highly recommend the Training Studio for realizing your potential. Best of all, the runs are well-organized with pace groups, water stops, and fun people. Contact: dale@thetrainingstudio.com

Hart to Heart Talk Show Series

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:38:00 +0000

Save the dates. For details & Ticket sales visit harttohearttalk.com Audience will be limited to the first 135 who buy tickets.
All shows are on Monday nights from 7- 8 p.m.

October 19: "The Gift of Fear" Based on Gavin de Becker's book, you will learn how to recognize the warning signs and rely on your intuition to determine if someone poses a danger to you. My guests (one was on Oprah with de Becker) were both attacked and will share their stories of what occured, and every member of the audience will get a copy of the book.)

November 16: "An Attitude of Gratitude" (The psychology of gratitude---an essential component of happiness)

December 14: "What's On YOUR Bucket List?" (What are you waiting for? This show will encourage the audience to live each day fully as if it were your last and to embrace your dreams NOW.)

My latest favorite clip: Finish Strong!

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 02:21:00 +0000

http://www.finishstrongmovie.com/

Courier Journal Article on Cheryl's MBA Program at Hoops

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:05:00 +0000

http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080723/ZONE03/807230437/-

Majoraca, Spain Tri Camp: March 2010

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 03:23:00 +0000

Sports Tours International has teamed up with legendary triathlon coach Joe Friel and TrainingBible.com to offer a camp specifically for middle and long distance triathletes.
This one week camp (March 19-26, 2010) offers participants the perfect opportunity to prepare with one of the leading coaches in the triathlon and cycling world. The camp will take place at Club Pollentia in sunny Majorca. Places will be strictly limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. http://www.trainingbible.com

Cheryl's USA Triathlon Life Magazine Article

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 03:03:00 +0000

In the recent summer issue, I address how athletes can mentally "push through the veil of discomfort." See article below. Links to previous my articles and webinars will be available soon.

“And he decided that pain was no valid reason for stopping.” --- Atlas Shrugged
Marathoners describe hitting the wall. Cyclists recount how “the man with the hammer” got them. Many athletes have talent, but not all athletes have the ability to break through the pain barrier. This comes from many hours of training both physically and mentally. The most successful athletes use their minds as allies instead of obstacles.
Last week, one of my clients became concerned in the days leading up to his marathon. “My biggest fear is that I will tank and be struggling to even do 10-minute miles those last several miles, and telling myself that I’m not strong enough,” he said. The first half of the race will be fun and exciting. I will just kind of trot along, thinking about my form, and enjoying the view. But when I start to hurt around the 18-mile mark and beyond, what should I focus on?”
First remember that the proverbial brick wall is really self-doubt. Experience tells athletes what to do and confidence allows them to do it. Confidence is knowing you are mentally, physically, and emotionally prepared so that on race day you can do battle with everything you have. In “The Way of the Peaceful Warrior” Don Millman says that “any obstructions you have ever encountered or may ever encounter are the direct result of insufficient or improper preparation.” Almost every difficulty we face can be linked to skipping essential training steps in the past—to a weakness in our foundation.
As we grow weary, war erupts in our mind. The left and right brain hemispheres debate the merits and ridiculousness of this event. The left, logical side insists tentative rewards are not worth the hazards, spotlighting the physical warnings. The creative, image-oriented right side applauds undaunted efforts, spurred forward with visions of the finish banner, cheering spectators and the afterglow of pride.
Before confronting the enemies (pain and self-doubt), I recommend preparing a mental arsenal full of weapons to be used when needed. This should include motivational quotes and music, pictures of inspiring people or places, movie clips from your best previous performances, and vivid images of a strong, successful finish.
Don’t turn your fears into reality by assuming that pain is a given in every race. For instance, many athletes begin looking for the infamous wall at mile 22. This becomes a negative self-fulfilling prophecy. The truth is that many personal bests are set effortlessly by athletes who describe that magical feeling of performing in “the zone.”
Pushing through physical and mental limitations takes time and persistence. It doesn’t magically happen overnight. If realistic and gradual demands are placed on the body it will adapt. Likewise, if the mind is given progressive challenges, it develops in strength. Expand your comfort zone. Learn how to push through the veil of discomfort. Lou Piniella said, “You have to learn how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”

Q: When I don’t think my body can handle the pain and I want to just quit, how do I tough it out?
A: Try not to resist the discomfort, but reframe and redefine what you are experiencing. When you’re running on empty and your quads are screaming, consider these “growing pains” as you are stretched toward your full potential. Instead of focusing on pain that won’t be ending anytime soon, remember the discomfort is temporary. Break challenges into manageable increments. All-out effort speed and hill workouts are ideal for simulating race day. Pay attention to breathing. Breath control is a key factor of emotional control and therefore performance control.

Q: I understand that self-talk plays a big role in successful performances. What can I tell myself those last grueling four or five miles so that I maintain pace?
A: Concentrating fully on one thing doesn’t leave much room for anything else so concentrate on positive mantras. Some of my favorites are: “Pain is just weakness leaving your body”, “That which does not kill us, makes us strong”, “Narrow the gap between what you are and what you want to be”, and “The greatest victory is the victory over ourselves. Remember it’s always too soon to quit.”
Postscript: My client (whose previous best marathon was 4:20) finished the Lincoln Marathon in 3:45, far exceeding his goal to break four hours. Congratulations, Don Mares!

Cheryl joins Joe Friel's Training Bible Program Consultant Team

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sun, 17 May 2009 02:57:00 +0000

Cheryl Hart is a Sports Psychology consultant. Her focus is on positive thinking and mental techniques for reaching goals. The proper mind set is essential to peak performance. Peak performance consulting provides athletes with the best chance for reaching full potential in sports and life.
John Post, MD is a Virginia based Orthopedic Surgeon with 26 years of Ironman experience who brings 6 trips across the finish line in Kona to the training table. He has treated and operated on thousands of athletically injured patients making him uniquely suited for the musculoskeletal issues of the endurance athlete. Be sure to check out his blog.
Kelly Cawthorn is a Registered Dietitian specializing in paleolithic nutrition for athletes. Her passion lies in helping people reach their personal goals through nutrition – whether that goal is to optimize athletic performance, achieve weight loss, or general well-being.

Resilency & Mental Toughness

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 21:19:00 +0000

How well do YOU handle adversity?

Join us Friday, February 27, 2009 from 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
University of Louisville: Strickler Auditorium 102
as PAUL ERWAY, Wheelchair Marathoner shares words of inspiration & lessons on courage, faith, & resiliency.

Followed by Cheryl Hart, Sport Psychology Consultant
“What Is This Thing Called Mental Toughness?”

Sponsored by the HSS Department, University of Louisville

Centre College Athletic Hall of Fame

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 06:05:00 +0000

Cheryl was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame on October 25, 2008 during Homecoming weekend. To view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOeRXGbP9mg

Results from first race of the season

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:51:00 +0000

Local Sports from The Courier
Monday, June 16, 2008 Flag City triathlon: Mason is fastest to finish
It was the times on the clock, not on his birth certificate, that stood out about Martin Mason's performance Sunday when he won the Flag City Multisport triathlon held at Riverbend Recreation Area. Mason, 45, completed the 1,500-meter swim, 24.8-mile bike ride and 10K run in 2 hours, 5 minutes, 59 seconds. His time was almost 3 minutes better than 25-year-old Thilo Fielder, the runner-up in 2:08.53. Nathan Russell, 36, was third in 2:09.14.

In the Olympic Female Triathlon, former University of Findlay track athlete Emilie Tullis won the overall women's title with a time of 2:24.34. Sara Skilliter was second (2:27.57) and Findlay's Rachel Martinez third (2:31.13).

Two world-class athletes highlighted competition in the duathlon, which substitutes another running event for the swimming competition found in a traditional triathlon.

Cheryl Hart, a 54-year-old sports psychology consultant who earned silver medals in the 2004 World Triathlon Championship in Portugal and the World Duathlon Championship in Belgium, completed the 5K run, 24.8-mile bike ride, and then a 10K run in 2:27.14. She not only won the Olympic Female Duathlon, but would have finished third in the men's event as well.

Cheryl Teams Up With Hoops Athletic Club

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:25:00 +0000

Hoops Athletic Club is committed to providing individual athletes and team with the necessary physical and mental skills required for peak performance. To get the extra edge, book Hoops team mental training sessions with Cheryl. This is for all sports, not just basketball. For more information call (502) 693-7443.
OPEN HOUSE JUNE 19, 2008 7-9 P.M.
ENROLL IN HOOPS UNIVERSITY'S NEW MBA MASTER ATHLETE PROGRAM: MIND,BODY,ATHLETICS

Cheryl To Speak at MS Ride Dinner June 7: Frankfort

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:11:00 +0000

Bike MS: Bike the Bluegrass is scheduled for June 7 & 8 and features a new route starting at Churchill Downs and ending at Keeneland. There are many route options, ranging from 25 to 100 miles, fully-supported to ensure a safe and fun ride. Cheryl will speak at the overnight dinner in Frankfort
MS affects more than 400,000 Americans and is the #1 disabling disease among young adults in the U.S. This is the chapter's largest fundraising event. They expect to have more than 600 cyclists and raise more than $500,000. Registration is available online at bikeMSky.org. For more information call (502) 451-0014.

What Does Training Bible Coach Adam Zucco Say About Working With Cheryl?

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 21:53:00 +0000

Click Here for Adam's Blog

"Husband, father, coach and triathlete. Partner with Joe Friel in Training Bible Coaching. I love to help anyone with a passion for what they do in endurance events. I surround myself with great people as well as other coaches to provide people with a multiple layered approach to their training and racing. I love learning new things about endurance events, and seeing my athletes reach their goals."

"Cheryl Hart has blown me away. Her ability to make me feel comfortable to talk with her over the phone, relate to me as an athlete and person has been nothing short of amazing. In the past couple of months we have worked together she has been able to quickly and effectively get to the root of some of my issues, all without using the buzz words above.

In a nutshell, her belief is you have to start at the core and work your way out. For us to chase the peripherals around are going to make us very crazy. How I act or react in my events has as much to do with how I deal with several other things in my life. Decisions I make, thought process I have, things I value and items I want to achieve are all related. It is impossible for me to only be good at mental execution in one aspect of my life. By working with me on several components in less then 6 sessions we are making significant progress and she is starting to re spark my love for this sport.

In my blog I try to recognize the greatness of the people around me that I run into. If I did not take a minute to tell you about Cheryl, I would be falling short of my goal."

If you have any interest in Cheryl or the programs she offers you can contact her: http://www.2ndwindmotivation.com/

Posted by Adam Zucco at 12:13 PM 0 comments

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 20:09:00 +0000

I've been profiled in Business First! Click here to read the article!

Check out this great motivational movie! Click here to view the movie 212 Degrees!

Women's Valentine's Retreat

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 21:51:00 +0000

PAGE ONE (CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)

PAGE TWO (CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:10:00 +0000

"When you feel like hope is gone, look inside you and be strong and you'll finally see the truth---that a hero lies in you." --Mariah Carey

Multi-Sport Symposium with Scott Tinley (Indianapolis-November 17, 2007)

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:44:00 +0000

Indianapolis Multi-Sport Symposium November 17, 2007
Scott Tinley, two-time Hawaii Ironman Champ, author, & teacher: Keynote speaker.
As a presenter at the symposium, I had the pleasure of getting to know Scott, one of my first sport heroes in the early days of triathlon. He signed my first racing bike (a bright yellow Tinley Tri-lite). Here we are on a "ride" together. Drafting at it's best--! Scott has written several books, including his latest two: "Racing the Sunset" and "Things to be Survived: Tales of Resolution and Resurrection.
www.scotttinley.com.

Fit Tech!

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:14:00 +0000

Vern LaMere, M.S., F.I.S.T.
FitTech, Inc.

FitTech, Inc. is based out of in Indianapolis Indiana. It is a company dedicated to improving the overall performance of Cyclists, Triathletes, Duathletes, and Runners. This is accomplished through these key services: Precision Dynamic Bicycle Fitting, Performance Testing, and individualized Multi-Sport Coaching. You do not need to be high-end to take advantage of these high-end services. Individuals of All Ability Levels are welcome and can benefit from FitTech's services. Everyone is treated as World Class!

Vern LaMere, owner of FitTech, Inc. holds a Master of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology-Human Performance from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. His primary areas of study and research were Lactate Threshold and Multi-Sport Training and Performance (Running, Cycling, Triathlon/Duathlon). Prior to starting FitTech in November of 2003, he was the Director of the Human Performance Lab at the National Institute for Fitness and Sport where he worked for 13 years. At NIFS he conducted research and carried out physiological testing including Body Composition Analysis, VO2 max and Blood Lactate Threshold testing, Running Form Analysis, and Dynamic Comprehensive Bike Fitting. He also conducted several multi-sport training and testing symposiums (Triathlon/Duathlon).

Vern has been a competitive multi-sport athlete for over 25 years. This experience in combination with his educational background gives him the unique ability to help individuals achieve their true athletic potential. He enjoys the challenge of assisting any athlete - regardless of ability level – to improve and achieve their goals. Vern is a Certified USA Triathlon Coach and a F.I.S.T. Certified Triathlon/Time Trial Bike Sizing Specialist. He has attended numerous workshops and conferences on the art and science of triathlon coaching, training and racing, including symposiums on the science of cycling and bike fitting. Vern’s Dynamic Bike Fit process was recently featured in Triathlete Magazine.

FitTech carries out its mission with three key services:

Precision Dynamic Bike Fitting
FitTech utilizes state-of-the-art Dartfish motion analysis software to carry out the DYNAMIC bike fit service. This comprehensive service optimizes comfort, power, efficiency, and targets injury prevention and treatment Other bike fitting services include real time computer display of pedaling efficiency, cleat positioning and wedge placement to correct for foot canting and leg-knee misalignment, DYNAMIC bike sizing for stock and custom frames.

Performance Testing
FitTech offers Lactate Threshold testing to dial in your training zones for heart race, pace and power (Watts) and Running Form Analysis (utilizing Dartfish) to help you become faster, more efficient, and reduce chance of running-related injuries.

Indvidualized Coaching
This service is for the individual who wants to take the guesswork out of their training. Training programs follow a proven method of periodization which takes athletes through various phases of training: Aerobic base building, Intensity building, Peaking and Recovery. Whether you’re a novice or expert, having a personal coach will take your training and racing to new heights!

For more information or to set up an appointment Call 317-491-5025, or e-mail, vern@fittechbylamere.com visit FitTech’s website at www.fittechbylamere.com

Self-Esteem Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 12:28:00 +0000

"The state of your life is nothing more than a reflection of your state of mind." Wayne Dyer
Self-esteem has been defined by the National Association for Self-esteem as "the experience of being capable of meeting life's challenges and being worthy of happiness." People who have healthy or authentic self-esteem trust their own being to be life-affirming, constructive, responsible, and trustworthy.
Cheryl conducts Self-concept & Self-esteem workshops for women of all ages and Mothers & Daughters. Learn how to celebrate being "Uniquely You" by ridding yourself of false knowledge and unwanted baggage. Book a session at your school, organization or a private workshop at 2nd Wind Motivation.

Out of the Darkness & Into the Light

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 22:30:00 +0000

Kick-Off Meeting - January 7, 2007

“RUNNING OUT OF THE DARKNESS AND INTO THE LIGHT”
BEGINS JANUARY 15TH, 2007 6:30 a.m. SENECA PARK
Followed by Coffee 7:30 a.m at Panera Bread on Breckenridge Lane

Purpose: To establish and market a walking/running program and club for women to enhance their health and self-esteem, implementing theories and practices. Each participant will be encouraged to establish her own specific goal and will work toward it with the support of other women.

Why darkness? Women will meet before dawn to walk or run together because:
• Running out of the darkness into the light has a symbolic quality to it. It is a reminder that no matter how dark the situation in life may seem, it’s important to just find the strength to take the next step. The sun will come up again and life is there waiting to be embraced.
• Darkness hides any insecurity women might have about body image.
• Darkness will force these women to focus only on the next step, to stay fully in the moment and not worry about things they can’t see in the distance.
• Darkness allows free flowing thoughts, whether in their own mind or sharing conversation with others with whom they share the road.
• There is something empowering and rejuvenating to run into dawn, arriving home as the coffee is brewing, knowing that others are just getting out of bed.
• These women will start their day with something positive. It will be their gift to themselves.
• When dawn breaks, these women will be reminded of the blessing of yet another day.

Potential Goals: My goal is to establish this club first in Louisville, Lexington, and Knoxville, and gradually expand the program nationwide. Louisville has a Kentucky Derby Festival “Triple Crown of Running” that attracts thousands of walkers and runners each year. Beginning January 15, the distances will increase gradually, preparing the women for the upcoming events, if they choose to participate. The first event is 3.1 miles and they continue up until the final leg, which is either a half-marathon or full marathon. Some may choose to walk or run the longer events as a relay team.

Additional support: A series of lectures will be held every other Sunday from 2- 3 p.m at St. Matthews Baptist Church on Grandview Avenue in the Hannah Room.
(COST: $10 per lecture)
LECTURE SCHEDULE:
*JANUARY 7: FREE Intro Meeting (Philosophy,benefits of program and quality of life)
*JANUARY 21: Motivation & the importance of setting clear, specific goals
*FEBRUARY 4: Proper Form, bio-mechanics, injury prevention (wear running clothes)
(Bridgid Mahan with Orthopaedic Motion & Sport Physical Therapy, Inc. will join me)
*FEBRUARY 18: Training With Your Head (less is more & importance of recovery days)
*MARCH 4: Exercise adherence,behavior change,accountability partners/support network
*MARCH 18: Self-concept & Self-esteem
*APRIL 1: Nutrition: Body & Soul
*APRIL 15: Final meeting: "Passing the Torch"... Now what?

Conclusion: A questionnaire will be distributed at the end of April to determine if and how this club and the commitment to exercise enhanced the quality of life (self-esteem, body image, energy levels, personality, ability to handle stress, and other factors) for the women involved.

Mental Toughness Skills Lecture Series

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Sat, 03 Mar 2007 17:05:00 +0000

Click flyer to enlarge

Mental Toughness Skills Lecture Series

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 16:50:00 +0000

"Running With All Your Heart"

noreply@blogger.com (2nd Wind) — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 14:02:00 +0000

“The Runner’s Path”
By Cheryl D. Hart
February Issue : Kentuckiana HealthFitness Magazine

“Your rewards in life will be in direct proportion to the contribution you make.”
---Anthony Robbins

Valentine’s Day brings out the loving and giving spirit in most of us. This time of year, Hallmark proves there is a basic human need for positive affirmations. This holds true in running, as we can each recall a time when someone offered an encouraging word to help us rise above self-doubt, pushing us to our full potential. Sometimes it’s simply a spectator’s empathetic look or a friendly wave during a difficult and lonely long run.
I asked runners from across the country to share their memories. I was touched by the outpouring of stories and reminded again how a simple kindness can make a huge difference in another’s life.
Kirby Adams of WHAS Team Crusade, shared that when she first started running, Peggy Kokernaut took her from “a know-nothing, running in a bathing suit and sneakers” and turned her into a runner. She remembers Peggy as the most generous human being she has ever known.
“It wasn’t coaching or anything like that, but just pure kindness, fun and encouragement,” recalls Adams. “Her spirit is what I have in turn tried to pass on the teams I work with in Louisville.”
Adams also remembers that when she was single and racing bicycles, she wore tight Lycra suits. Her maiden name was Oliver. A little boy would always come out and cheer for her. After awhile, Kirby realized that he wasn’t yelling, “Go Kirby Oliver” but “Go curvy all-over.” This was not only encouraging but also made her laugh each time she passed him.
Joe Nail reflects on the time when he was suffering side stitches during the final run leg of the National Duathlon Championships.
“A 61-year old man from Texas spoke with me for the duration of the race, where I was giving up and planning to finish walking, and he encouraged me to keep running,” he recalls. “I placed somewhere around 20th but you know I was passed by many who never uttered a word.”
Usually when someone impacts our life, we are more apt to want to pass the kindness on to someone else. Most of the runners who shared their stories believe in the importance of helping other runners because of how much the support meant to them.
“When I started running marathons in college, I had (and still have) the best fan club ever,” said Kristen Harvey, a six-time marathoner. “My friends always do something amazing like sneak in my room and fill it with balloons and streamers saying, ‘You can do it under 4 hours’ or ‘You’re amazing.’ Sometimes they make T-shirts that say, ‘Kristen’s Fan Club’ and plot out the course to figure how many spots they can hit to cheer me on. I think they usually get more of a workout than me. They’re the best friends ever. They have motivated me to keep running and in return I have motivated some of them to start running.”
Debbie LaMarche’s best memory was a simple “thumbs up” gesture from a very old man who looked to be in his 80’s. He came out on the porch and when he signaled, she wondered if he used to race himself years ago.
Likewise, Ken Jackson believes that the most meaningful part of his running has been more from people being there than what was said---the people he has met, with whom he shared the road.
“The miles melt away so fast when you are out there with someone,” says Jackson. “They may have been a few yards or a few miles ahead, but they were out there. We may not have been speaking or saying a whole lot, but the melting of souls on the street was more meaningful than words can express. These days when I run by myself, I fondly remember some of those wonderful runs with my friends. A smile will come over my face and I know that they are with me. Even though they are thousands of miles away, they have given me so much inspiration and encouragement that I will be forever grateful.”
Dave Laumeyer shares his memory of the last lap of a Duathlon when he wanted to stop. His girlfriend, who had driven three hours to cheer him on, told him he looked great and helped to motivate him and push him to continue. On the bike leg, he recalls looking down at the top tube to read the decal “Just for Justin” posted in loving memory of his best friend Justin Jewell, who had a passion for running but was diagnosed with Rhabdosarcoma, passing away just one year later. Racing in memory of him keeps Laumeyer strong through all his training.
Susan Bradley-Cox remembers running in Ironman Hawaii years ago when she began to fade at the turn-around point.
“I must have mumbled that I was struggling and was not sure I could finish,” she reflects. “The Pro-triathlete I was running with off and on, told me to dig deep and keep going and that I would make it. I kept repeating those words and I did make it.”
While running his first marathon, the Marine Corp, Gerry Barker remembers looking for his family, stationed at the midway point.
“When I heard and saw my 17-year old daughter at mile 13, my eyes filled with tears of joy,” he said. “I ran over and ‘high-fived’ her then kept going a few yards where I saw my wife and sister-in-law. I got a big charge from that, but the best was yet to come at mile 23. There I saw my wife and daughter enthusiastically yelling amongst the crowd. But when I spied my brother and Mom, I ran over and gave her a big hug. I was so excited that my family came to watch me run, along with the thousands of other spectators. It’s so cool when the people you love support your races.”
Tim Yount also remembers the strength of family support at the state track meet his junior year of high school.
“I was starting our 4 X 800 meter relay team,” says Yount. “As I was setting up in our blocks, I heard my dad yell at me something very simple yet effective, ‘make us proud son.’ I remember smiling to myself knowing that any performance that I considered my best would qualify just knowing my parents. It was strange because we were in a huge stadium and the only comment I remember hearing was my dad. The gun sounded a minute later. It has been 25 years but I still recall the impact that had on my race. I ran my personal best and we won the state title with a record setting time that stood for a decade.”
What Yount doesn’t know is how countless athletes from Team USA responded that he, as team manager, was their greatest encourager. Year after year, he cheered us on by name, as enthusiastically for the stragglers as for the front-runners, making each person believe they were a significant part of the team.
Anne Ellacott’s memory is of the Gulf Coast Half-Ironman---where at 107 degrees, hot steam was coming off the asphalt.
“I was slowly petering,” she says in retrospect. “About mile 5, a very tall guy came up beside me on the run. Each of his steps was easily two or three of mine. I told him that I wasn’t feeling well and that my stomach was a mess from the heat and swallowing salt water. He started talking to me and never stopped, helping me hold a steady 7:15 pace all the way. With a mile left, I suggested picking up the pace and he agreed. I looked for him at the finish but never found him. Without him that day, I would never have been able to keep going. I was 2nd in my age group, only a minute behind the leader. I will never know if that was really an angel or just a great man, but he saved my life.”
In Awaken the Giant Within, Anthony Robbins says that “only those who have learned the power of sincere and selfless contribution experience life’s deepest joy: true fulfillment.” He urges that “instead of looking for heroes, we should become one.”
Never-the-less, David Gassman considers his running partner, Jamie Weedman, a hero. Jamie is blind and his efforts inspire everyone they pass, and motivate Gassman to pick up the pace. He also enjoys cheers from the man dressed as Superman at mile five of the Mini-Marathon, as well as from all the spectators along the way.
“Understanding that it is difficult to be a spectator at a road race, is maybe why the encouragement from the spectators and volunteers is heard and appreciated by us runners,” he says. “We know “it’s a running thing… they might not understand’ but they cheer for us anyway.”
I have always believed my life purpose was to encourage and inspire others to be the best they can be. A reaffirmation came unexpectedly while working on this column from two women I’ve coached in the past.
Wanda Karia said, “Constant encouragement and support from fellow triathletes is the rule and not the exception and a big part of why I love the sport so much. Seeing you when I came out of the water at Buckeye Challenge, hearing the cowbell and your reminders to keep my head up and breath on the run are just a few examples of how you have helped me. And the rubber ducky (he sings and dances “Splish Splash”) at Seneca Park in the downpour is also a special memory.”
And finally, Sylvia Kamp shared, “I was not much of a high school runner but there was a coach from Centre College who recruited me to run. Throughout the entire time I ran for her, she always led me to believe that I could be a successful runner.
Unfortunately, I only had the chance to run for her one year, but it was perhaps the most important year to have her as a coach,” said Kamp. “Not only did I have a successful freshman year, but I learned that running can and should be enjoyable. Ten years later, that coach is the reason I am the person that I am. I am now a collegiate coach myself, hoping to provide the same inspiration and memories to other collegiate runners. In my “spare time” I am very realistically training for the Olympic Trials in the marathon. This is from someone who refused to run the 3200 meter in high school because it was too long. No words can express how much Coach Cheryl Hart means to me.”
This was her gift to me.
Coincidently I glanced at my horoscope today, and found: “While your earnings are how you make a living, your contributions are how you make a life. Pay more attention to the latter now.” In summary, let’s remember Goethe’s teaching: “Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them to become what they are capable of being.”