Team Run

I am really enjoying my work with Team in Training, both the fundraising and the team runs.  This morning was a team run and I thought I would tell you a little about what goes on there.  

Each Saturday morning the team meets to run together.  We usually meet at a different place each week for variety, like local parks, a college campus or different sections of the rail trail.  As team members arrive, we gather and start stretching.  Once everyone is there, the coaches get the meeting started with announcements etc.  Everyone introduces themselves and what races they are training for.  While this is going on, maps/directions are handed out.  The coaches will recommend a distance based on the training schedule for each athlete.  The last thing that happens at each group run is called a “mission moment.”  This is where a team member will share something moving—either about their honored teammate (cancer survivor) or something else meaningful that happened mission related.  Sometimes mission moments are good news, sometimes they are sad news, but they are always a great way to get the run started—by reminding every one of the real reason we are all there.  A team photo is taken, then it’s time to run!

Add this to the list of cool things
 I have seen while running.

My run today was six miles.  Very quickly on I meet and started running with two girls whom I will also be doing the San Diego half with.  We hit it off quickly and found a lot to chat about.  I stuck with my 1/1 ratio for the whole run.  The girls seemed very surprised that I could keep up and even pass them doing my Jeff Galloway run/walk/run method.  Our running coaches drive the courses to check on the runners and provide water stops.  The coaches also set up snacks and water at the end.  After chatting and selling some Bondi Bands, the team run was done.  The girls and I made plans to ride to the airport together race weekend. 

What I love most about the team is how supportive everyone is.  No runner is ever left behind.  Everyone cheers each other on and is there to help when someone is having trouble.  I am so thankful that I found Team in Training.  The San Diego half will certainly not be my last Team in Training event.  If you are interested in joiningTeam in Training, check out this site or email me! 

Getting my medal at the
Disney Princess Half Marathon. 

A dream is a wish…

--Amy