What an Incredible Experience!
What an Incredible Experience!
By Ruth Igoe
2011 Crossroads Runners Team Member
There was the camaraderie. The teamwork. The knowledge that fundraising challenges were all for a great cause, supporting the social outreach and mission of Old St. Pats.
After an incredible marathon experience with Old St. Pat’s last year, I was once again motivated by the inspirational introductory sessions, team volunteering opportunities, and meeting fellow members that I made sure I signed-up early for the same challenges and thrills as part of the Crossroads Runners Team 2012.
Prior to last year, I had trained for two previous Chicago Marathons on my own. Running is never easy for me and I was accustomed to the solitude. I was concerned about the group dynamic. What if I was too slow? What if I got left in the dust? Would it be embarrassing to be huffing and puffing like I do in front of others?
Right away, however, I reaped the enjoyable benefits of the team approach, particularly during the Saturday morning group long runs. First, there is the early morning pep talk and strategy session held by the coaches for the assembled group. Having an opportunity to simply meet and enjoy some fellowship with other runners before heading out was great. The team spirit helped me persevere through the tough spots. During my very first session, a coach suggested a small but important correction to my stride, which alleviated pain in my quadriceps.
Sometimes I would be able to keep up with a group. Sometimes I would end up running on my own. But no matter where I was on any given Saturday, I always felt supported by the coaches encouraging us along the way and the throngs of cheering fellow running groups on the lakefront paths. After each run, there was an opportunity to catch up with teammates, swap stories and share training plans.
And come marathon day, after you finally cross that finish line, of course Old. St. Pat’s puts on a post-marathon party like none other.
If running a marathon is on your “bucket list,” the Old St. Pat’s Crossroads Runners team is a great way to accomplish this goal. Even if you have run a few marathons, training with fellow members while supporting the social outreach mission of Old St. Pat’s is a rewarding way to complete the challenge. You are supported throughout your training, as you work to raise money to meet your fundraising goals.
Be warned, however, that after the incredible experience runners had last year and the reputation the Old St. Pat’s team is getting, spots on the Crossroads Runners Team just might become scarce.
Sign-up soon! Join the Crossroads Runners 2012 Team today!
To learn more about the Crossroads Runners 2012 Team and how to join, contact Anna Van Handel at anna@oldstpats.org, or 312.831.9372.
