"Gold Medal" Day - DeeDee Trotter

Several years ago, on a different blog, I wrote about the gracious personalities of runners I have met. This week I had the distinct privilege of meeting DeeDee Trotter, Gold and Bronze Medal winner at the London Olympics in 2012.

She was at Fleet Feet Sports to kick off a shoe collection drive for homeless people in the Orlando area. On Tuesday afternoon she was putting together cardboard boxes to hold the donated shoes. Her personality was so outgoing, yet humble. On Wednesday, she stopped by to greet the new group of "No Boundaries" participants. We were all inspired by her story. She remained and posed for photos with us, she even "shared" her Gold Medal. On Friday, she returned to drop off shoes she had collected from a friend. The excitement was evident as she mingled with the staff.  

Too often we don't hear about the good things being done by athletes through various charities. This week I got to experience and witness an athlete going "hands on". No question that DeeDee is a world class athlete. Better yet, she is a world class person! 

Time Flies When You're Having Fun!

Looking back it has been awhile since I last posted. "Time Flies When You're Having Fun!".  I have been maintaining, well actually increasing, my training miles since my last post. I am trying something new because of scheduling issues. I am running back-to-back on the weekends. I know that goes against what I have preached because REST is important. I seem to be doing well and getting rest on weekdays. I do run short mileage once during the week. So far, so good.

I am coaching a half-marathon training group on Saturday mornings. I really enjoy assisting newer runners who are training for their first half-marathon. It is a pleasure to pass on what I have learned from so many experienced runners over the years. As I've told them, "I don't want you to make the same mistakes I made." On Wednesday of this week I will begin coaching a "No Boundaries" running program for new runners. These are the people who have made a life changing decision to get out and walk/run. We will meet on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings. Not sure how my running schedule will be impacted by these duties. I don't mind, I will figure something out.

On October 20th, I will be running the Empire State Half-Marathon in Syracuse, NY. It will be my first half since the OUC last December. Much like I tell the new runners, "don't worry about your time." I want to be able to run well and feel good afterward, that's all. I will evaluate my training at that point and move forward as I outlined in an earlier post.

A special "Thank You" to my friend Pamela Starr for running with me on Sunday's. She has been instrumental in keeping my training moving forward. She too is training for a half-marathon. It has been a fun several months of long, hot miles. Oh, and she enjoys a stop at Panera after the run. Need to re-fuel!