What This Means to Me

It is now a week until the big race. I'm actually nervous about this race. I'm also very emotional on various fronts. I've held off writing this entry until closer until the race day, because this seemed it would be the better time to write this.

As you all know the Sunburst race is in South Bend, Indiana, my hometown. I grew up in South Bend, and as most of you know I am a devoted Notre Dame fan. But going back and racing in this race means many things to me. Physically I am a different person. My growing up years were full of taunts over my weight, my hair, and even my feet(the way I walked). Now that I am more fit, and more confident in myself, I feel I can push all that far behind me as I run through the streets of South Bend.

Of course the allure of this race is the finish line. As a kid I wondered what it would be like to be on the field of Notre Dame Stadium. My all time Irish hero is Joe Montana. To run on to the same playing field did means the world to me. I get goose bumps thinking about it.

My mother and brother are buried in South Bend. While I know they are with me always, they will feel closer to me that particular day.

It means so much to me that my sister Anne will be cheering me on as run the 13.1 mile course. She has been so supportive of my running.

So next Saturday will be an emotional day for me. I look forward to reporting about a successful finish.

:-)Charlie