LETTERS
From Issue #12
Editor's
Letter
Running the Ottawa National half-marathon (21K) is one of the toughest things I’ve ever done. Correction—the toughest thing. I knew way back last winter when I told all of you in our Winter 2002 issue that I was planning on doing it, that it would be a challenge. But I was so not prepared.
I mean, yes, I trained, but I had no idea. Race day was beautiful. Not too hot, not too cold. The first hour went okay, but it was a nightmare from then on. I think some allergy medication I had taken was having some awful side effects and made the rest of the race nearly impossible.
My legs felt like weights and my head was spinning. I started doubting myself. I didn’t think I’d make it. “I’m really sick,” I told myself, “If I quit now I know everyone will understand.” But then something somewhere else in my brain kicked in and said, “You can do this. You are finishing this—no matter what!” And that was it. And I did.
I really understand now what world surfing champ Layne Beachley (page 56) is talking about when she says self-belief is key if you want to be a winner. You really have to believe in yourself, against all odds, no matter what your body is telling you or what other people are saying. You have to go for it with no excuses. Just do it! (By-the-way, thanks Mike and Nike for hanging in there with me.)
It’s great when you get outside support, and know that even strangers are trying to help you out (see Nelly, page 50), but it’s really satisfying when you dig in, do your own thing and see it through to the end (see Be Your Own Boss, page 52).
Good
reading!
Lorraine
