The loneliness of the long distance runner

The last 2 months I have had a rare break from my running solitude with Faviola Sarai Perez Igari from Mexico City living and training with me while she was here running some track races.  Though it has been two months, I just haven’t had the heart to tell Quin she doesn’t understand him! I am happy to say I think my Spanish is better, or maybe she just got better understanding my Spanglish. In any case, we have had plenty of great runs and good laughs.

I admit, it took a little adjusting getting used to running with someone since I have been doing almost everything solo since 2004. The only other time I have had company was the 3 weeks before the 2008 Olympic Marathon when Magdalena Lewy Boulet and I ran together almost every day. It was so nice to have some company in both cases.

While training for the ASICS LA Marathon this past March I felt like I was in my own bubble tucked away from the rest of the world. Since I was coaching myself, I was the only one that knew what I was doing on a daily basis. Even the hubby was too tired at the end of the day to ask. I have to say it’s  little lonely, but when you don’t have other options you persever or throw in the towel.

I remember learning in a college sports psychology class that the best type of motivation is internal motivation. Well, luckily, I am not short that, and I am going to need it as I start ramping things up again for a great finish to 2015.

“It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell.” -Buddha

Faviola Sarai Perez Igari along the ocean in Pacific Grove, CA
Golden California…I’m going to miss this ponytail!
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2 thoughts on “The loneliness of the long distance runner

  1. I’ll be staying in PG this weekend at Lovers Point. Usually I run long on the road/trail up towards Asilomar. Probably my favorite run in the whole world.
    Can you recommend any other trails in the area? Thank you.
    Congratulations on your LA performance!

    1. Hi! Yes, I love mile long rail trail that starts at the end of Jewell Av and goes towards Pebble Beach. If you cross the road at Pebble beach you can stay on a nice dirt trail that hugs the ocean for another 3-4 miles. You can also loop back on the boardwalk in front of Asilomar Beach. Check out my blog on great runs and Asilomar! Enjoy your stay.- Blake

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