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For me, running is more than putting one foot in front of the other. It’s a way of life. It’s the experiences, emotions, setbacks, successes, friendships, team — it’s everything to a small part of me. The other day a fellow asked me, “Why do you run?” I stopped, thought about it and hesitated on the broad — yet simple — question. To me, and probably most runners, the interest can build from more than just the daily miles, fast times and personal records. In short, the reasoning I run can best be described in the following lines:
Within running comes a circle of life.
Within this circle comes a family.
Within this family comes unity.
Unity brings personalities.
Personalities bring experiences.
Through experiences comes character.
Through character comes heart.
Heart builds passion.
Passion brings motivation, dedication, hard work.
Within such qualities
comes a runner.
At a personal level, running became an interest for me later in high school. I enjoyed the competitiveness, hard work and determination that went with the sport. But, most of all, I enjoyed the camaraderie, tradition and spirit of the team. To me, runners are quite different than many athletes I know — well, at least my high school team was.
The quirkiness, character and personalities of our team made each and every daily practice an adventure. Through running, we shared and carried a common bond unlike any other team I participated in before.
I see a similar resemblance from my old high school teammates to the ones I know now at Chico. All I can say is that witnessing and being a part of the inspirational, powerful and sometimes quite hilarious moments and experiences with this team has left me with more than I expected.
Every runner — every athlete — builds their own little circle, niche, family and friends from the sport they love. So when asked, “Why do I run?” I answer, “Because it brings the structure, support and routine to all the little things that fall in between.”
What it all comes down to is a group of individuals coming together and building their own college experiences and stories through the raw, simple and sheer dedication of a common interest — running.
For all those fortunate to be a part of a team, club or association during your college years — live it, love it and don’t run away from it.
Tori can be reached at
ttyler@theorion.com
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