Changes. Time may change me, but I can’t change….Running not only changed my weight, it changed my outlook on life. Over the course of time that I've spent on the road I’ve come to acknowledge and really appreciate the change of seasons. Previously, fall and winter were purely an inconvenience to me. Now, I’ve come to celebrate the changes in the landscape, weather and ecosystems.
Early in the evolution of my seasonal appreciation, I took a strong liking to running near bodies of water, from creeks to oceans. On one occasion in Clearwater Beach at the end of a run I kept going right in to the water. Communing with nature for me took a profound turn when I faced my greatest natural challenge. During the early part of 2004 luck shined upon me as my name was among only 300 chosen in a lottery to participate in the Seward, Alaska, Mount Marathon Race.
Okay, luck may not be the best choice of words when referring to race. It’s a punishing event. Also, “Mount Marathon” is a bit of a misnomer as the title of the race. The race does not span 26.2 miles through the fishing town of Seward. No, this foot race goes straight up 3, 222 feet above sea level to climb the mountain now known for the race it hosts. Unfortunately, the peak acts only as the halfway point. From there runners make the perilous descent. And let me tell you, this is where the real fun begins with the steep drop offs, severe inclines, massive scree and shale fields, and pure lack of well rutted trails on the mountain.
To be sure, Alaska holds natural beauty like no other place I have visited. In this run, I didn't feel like I battled with nature, which I'm keenly aware is a skirmish that can't be won. This race, the experience of it all, took me to a place much like a spiritual revelation or nirvana. I found an appreciation for more than the seasons—for creation itself. Running the mountain was a change of pace and a change of attitude. Lord knows I can’t change Mt. Marathon, but boy did it change me.
Tom
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