How was my last race almost 4 years ago?
The other day, I realized this fall will mark 4 years since my senior year of cross country in high school. Next spring will be 4 years since my last track meet. Four years since I last complained about workouts and long runs with my teammates. Four years since I last laced up my spikes to shoot for another PR or attempt to qualify in post season. Four years since I was in the best shape of my life. Four years since I leaned my head over for a medal to be placed around my neck. Four years since my teammates, parents, and coaches hugged me after a huge PR and the best race of my life. Four years since I turned that last corner and raced towards the finish line. Four years ago, I never would've thought I'd miss training and racing with my team as much as I do now. The adrenaline of it all; the accomplishment after winning or getting another PR. I miss it everyday.
Did I have the chance to run in college? Yes. However, I didn't want to go to a small school, even if it meant I could continue my running career. Any D1 schools that were interested in me didn't have my major. Therefore, I chose my future career over continuing to run. I still question that decision everyday. Would I still be running in my junior year of college? Would I enjoy the school I chose? Would I be running to my potential or be hindered by injuries? How fast could I really have been? All questions that will stay unanswered. I believe I made the right choice in the long run (no pun intended) and it will help my career in the future, but it doesn't stop me from asking myself those questions.
I'm dating a guy who runs in college and I go to his meets when I can which makes me miss it even more. I wish I could experience collegiate running with him. I really didn't think I would miss those long runs, workouts, and races as much as I do now. If you're running in high school or college, live it up. Every second of it. You may not realize how much you'll miss it when it's over (even for a few years after).
- Anonymous
