The Time is Now

We are closing in on less than 48 hours to the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon.  Oh how time flies.  It just seems like yesterday that we were strapping on our shoes for our first training run.  There has been good runs.  There has been bad runs.  We've been rained on.  We've been snowed on.  We've ran headfirst into 40 mph winds.  We've battled pollen and humidity.  We've raced up hills and down.  Some of our journey's have been longer than others.  But that doesn't matter.  As we will all join together on Sunday to run.  Some will be there to reach goals.  Others will be raising awareness.  All will be awesome.

Its not going to be easy.  Anything this great never is.  Like your training, this race will be full of ups and downs.  Be strong...Be focused...its a long day.  Manage your day.  Run your race.  You're gonna pass people.  People will pass you.  Stay true and trust in your training.

Weather may not be on our side.  It won't matter as we will remain focused.  Step by step stride by stride.  Together we will run.  Focused on the end of our journey.

In every race there will be a turning point.  It will be earlier for some.  Later for others, but there will be a moment.  A moment a truth.  Embrace this moment.  We have all worked too hard to let down now.  The difference between someone who  achieves success and someone who doesn't is simple.   You have to be willing to hurt to that next level.  Its not easy and never will be.  Just know that the pain you will feel will be washed away with the joy of success awaiting us at the finish.

Pain is only temporary....the memories are forever.

So, join me on Sunday.  Willing to rise to the occasion.  Willing to hurt to that next level.  We are Cleveland runners and we will own this day!!


BEAL