Run Run Run

Interesting comments, myself and my wife are over age 50 runners. We have both been running races over 25 years. We were younger runners at one time. Get involved, we ran the USTF Circuit the last two years, we belong to the Salt Lake Track Club, we travel to many marathons, half marathons, etc. Also, the elite runners naturally hang with each other as they race against each other and often train together. I think the real challenge for a runner and feeling a part of the sport, is to find runners with about your same ability to train with. I have numerous running buddies with about the same ability as me and my wife. But, it has taken real work to cultivate those relationships. About 5 of my running buddies are buddies because I volunteered to run with them when they were slower and encouraged them to run a marathon. One of my beginners just ran his 33rd marathon at Des News and now has run the same number as me. A few names: Davey, Bruce, Brett, Diana, Sheldon. The real fact is, older runners are getting more scarce. You need to come to races and make it a point to talk to runners in your division. If someone beats you, make a point to congradulate them and encourage the person behind you. Running is no different that life, younger people hang with younger people and older people hang with older people. My next two races are the Provo Half and the Hobble Creek Half marathon. If you feel up to it with your training, come run one of these. Let me know. Another suggestion that I think would really help, join a running club or get a trainng coach that does regular workouts with a group of runners. This will give you a network, know people, etc. Sasha is one of a kind with his insight, kindness, etc. Other runners on the blog are also great, but, many of them are younger and raising kids, etc. limited time to comment on blogs, etc. Keep with it, you will meet people.

By the Way, all your PRs are ahead of you, mine are all behind me. Enjoy the journey of getting faster and setting PRs, it is an exciting time that is also a limited time. Cody, another blogger is a PR machine this year.

B of BS Rools out

Thanks for the comments

Yes would like to meet you at a race. Would like to do a 1/2 marathon someday, not sure if Im ready yet, I was thinking next year if I can get on a more regular training schedule

Have thought about the SLC track club and running partners too. My challenge is my schedule is pretty much geared around my 10 year old son's schedule with all his sports, thats where my priority is and if I get to run thats an extra benefit. But Ive come to realize that for me to be around for him, I need to take care of myself too

Yes older runners are scarce, but there seems to be at least some increase in interest lately. The person that amazes me is 83 year old John Cahill, last year he always beat me, this year it is the reverse, but I admire him for continuing and he is always in good spirit

Anway great suggestions, appreciate it. Its probably a process of steps, so far Ive gotten interest in running, started doing races, started practice somewhat and now need to work at doing the network with the other runners. Thanks again, Ill keep in touch