Other Runners…Gotta Love ‘em

One of the best parts of running is the running community. In these times, when everyone is divided over politics and whatever else, running unites people. It’s a tight-knit community and one that’s easy to get in to—there isn’t a secret handshake or anything. Just bring your running shoes and you’re in!

While it hasn’t always been this way, women and men are equally represented at races of all distances. Maybe it’s all those endorphins, but runners are happy and runners love to talk about running with each other.

Recently, I met all my fellow Colfax Marathon Ambassadors and besides being a little shaken up that I was representing the “old-lady-runner” demographic, I loved meeting this diverse group of people all united by a love of running (and a love of the Colfax race weekend).

There were women, men, older people, younger people, parents, married couples and singles, all colors and sizes represented. As we went around the room and introduced ourselves, I could not have been more impressed with these people.

One guy just started running two years ago and was contemplating a 50-mile run this weekend–he hadn’t “committed” yet. Dude, I think you’re already committed! Oh, and he has type 1 diabetes.

There were triathletes, accountants, teachers, yoga instructors, people who do multiple races each week, parents, soon-to-be-marrieds, new aunts, people from Wyoming, people who live two blocks away, shy people, loud people—you name it. It was fascinating.

I could not have been more impressed with this group of people, brought together by a healthy pursuit, united in their desire to share their passion with others.

One of the things I love about my other favorite race, the Boston Marathon, is seeing all the runners from all over the world, representing all demographics, all there to have a good time.

And so many runners enter these races to raise money for charities that are near and dear to their hearts. I’m telling you, this is a cool group of folks.

I know when I go for a good run, I’m happy, and calm, and nicer to people. Imagine being in a room with a bunch of folks who have gone for a run and are happy, calm and nice! Kind makes one want to get everyone out and go for a run!