Six months into running alone, I realized I may need someone to challenge me. And so I put an advertisement in craigslist for a running partner. Alain responded to my advertisement. My running has never been the same since then. Alain has run all his life. Running is second nature for him. In his peak running career he has some remarkable running times. A back surgery slowed him down, but he has returned to his passion. Alain has an infections passion for running. His knowledge and tips about racing, body recovery and small anecdotes constantly remind me how fortunate I am to have someone guide and support me through this sport. Alain is very patient with me and reminds me the follies of new enthusiastic runners (I have made every one of them) He still doesn’t give up.
When I took up running, I thought that the only thing you need was a pair of shoes, sunscreen, water and attitude. I am slowly learning that it is a science and a fascinating one too. I have now added to my subscription of magazines running times, runners, trail runners and really have to fight now buying too many running books. When I started running with Alain, I had a 9-minute mile. I now have a 7.30 – 8.00 minute mile run. Running with someone better than you can challenge you but also bring out your potential. My first 5k run ( Komen Race For The Cure), I ran @ 7.23, i placed 5th in my age group(30-39), 16th in Female overall, and 92 in the race. In my first half marathon (silver commet, Atlanta) was 1.44:46 minutes. I was placed 8/121. I am always excited at my records but Alain says he always knew my potential. It is great to have someone believe in you and to see beyond what you can. I don’t get to run often with Alain these days, as I have moved to Atlanta. But every time I go back to the San Francisco, we run together and catch up on things. We are planning to run the way to cool 50K race on March 10th. To my friend and running partner, I want to thank you for helping me recognize my potential.
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