Global Running Day is a day that celebrates the sport of running. It is held annually on the first Wednesday of June. Today millions of people all over the world is taking part in Global Running Day by celebrating this sport we love so much by going for a run.
Head over to GLOBAL RUNNING DAY'S Facebook Page or Website to join the movement.
WHAT IS GLOBAL RUNNING DAY?
Global Running Day is a worldwide celebration of running that encourages everyone to get moving. It doesn’t matter how fast you run or how far you go—what’s important is that you take part, and how you do it is up to you. Run a lap around your block, take your dog for a long walk, or call your friends for a pick-up game in the park. The important thing is that you have fun being active—and you inspire others to join you. - Global Running Day Website
Today I am sick in bed with flu, wishing I can go for a run. I have never someone who gets a flu or a cold often, that's something I have been very lucky with, however, this year I have been very unlucky being sick for the third time in less than 3-months. However, I am still celebrating this sport, even if it is just by looking at some old running pictures and dreaming about my next run. Running is something so special to me and the times that I am unable to run due to being sick or injured just makes me appreciate it even more.
WHY DO YOU RUN?
I started running to escape - it became my sanity. I have celiac disease and hypopituitarism and running is something that made me feel strong and capable through some of the hardest years of my life. It gave me purpose and meaning when all hope seemed lost. It was never easy managing having chronic illnesses and competing as an elite athlete. However, that burning desire to succeed and my dreams were stronger and bigger than my problems. The more I did it the more I loved it and the better I became at it I guess. I started to dream big and success came as a bonus. Running became my biggest passion and ever since I was a little girl I dreamt of becoming one of South Africa’s top female distance runners.
Being a running coach and personal trainer allows me to share my passion with other athletes and other women and give back to something that gave me so much. It gives me the opportunity to help them achieve their fitness/running dreams. The biggest reward and favorite part of my job is seeing my athletes improve and achieve their own personal goals.
HOW HAS RUNNING CHANGED YOUR LIFE?
Running has given me so much. I had the opportunity to travel and see the world while representing my country twice at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships and running on a NCCA D1 scholarship in America for three years. It allows me to be part of a running community who shares my love for the sport. Through running, I have made my best friends and have even met the love of my life!
I have been extremely unfortunate with accidents and had to sit out of running for extended periods of time. I haven't had one serious non-accident related injury since 2014. However, through the struggles and the times I couldn't run my love for running only grew stronger, so did my will. Every single time I had to make a comeback I was hungrier and more determined to work hard. All the setbacks set me up for success since it forced me to train smarter and be more disciplined and consistent. Mentally it becomes draining to get up every time after after a fall or accident, so I am thankful for a day like today when I am just reminded of my WHY again. It gives just more reason to fight back and work hard to be able participate in this sport I love so much.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?
Email me your running story to anniebothmarunningblog.com to get featured in one of my upcoming guest blog posts. I would love to hear why you run and how running has changed your life.
Happy Global Running Day
- Annie