I outran the Corona Crazy.

I don’t say this to take lightly the circumstances surrounding this pandemic, or the tremendous impact it has had on our lives – and of so many who sadly lost theirs. And I know there are many people who are still in the thick of it, and are struggling to see the other side.

But I’m writing today’s post on the heels of the “official” weekend of a virtual race. Way back in March, I joined forces with a team of running coaches – mostly PTs, but we did have some RD representation! – located all around the country. We decided to form a Facebook group, called “Outrun the Corona Crazy”, with a capstone event – a virtual race of 5K, 10K or Half Marathon distance – to take place on/around June 20.

When we made this group, I thought “June 20 seems really far off … I’m sure we will be back to racing in person by then, but I’ll go with it!” And here we are, on June 22: somewhere in the middle of Phase 3 of re-opening (at least in the Capital Region), Boston Marathon and Boilermaker 15K (both scheduled for the 2nd weekend in September) recently officially cancelled the events, and we still have no clear indication of when – or in what capacity - our schools, athletics, and events will resume.

So this weekend, I ran the virtual Half that I signed up for. Having just hiked an Adirondack High Peak (Tabletop Mt., for anyone who is familiar with the 46!) two days prior, it was a rough go. Honestly, I just couldn’t fathom putting out a hard effort, so I just logged the miles and enjoyed the quiet roads on a weekend morning, capped with the smell of fresh manure (there’s a reason we call it “Stinky Farm Road” :-P)

We’re halfway through the year and this is the ONLY race shirt I’ve gotten so far … so, obligatory race shirt picture! :)

Now, let’s go back to the title here: I outran the Corona Crazy. I’m still not sold on the idea that I – or we – actually have, but it was fitting for what we wanted to accomplish with our group: a place to feel supported, motivated, encouraged, and accountable – and learn a thing or two! Having a community is hugely important for success with running. Whether that is a physical community with group runs or weekend get-togethers, a virtual community like our Facebook group with strangers united over a common goal, or even something as simple as following the social media accounts of your favorite pro athlete, running store, or brand, community breeds success.

We are outrunning the craziness of life, dampened in some ways and heightened in others by this pandemic. We are in this together.