Last weekend, I ran my second and final race of the year. It did not reward to me the things I thought I deserved. I set very high, though attainable, and specific expectations onto this race. The elements quite literally put a governor on my pace and dream. An easterly headwind of 10-15mph did not relent even one mile of the twenty six eastbound, point to point miles I sought to reap my redemption. Pace fell off after 17. I spent the near 10 final miles in the most bitter acceptance of fate, pushing against the very resistance which laughed back at my broken spirit. Voice carried rumors that finishing times were between 5-10 minutes slower across the board. I needed ten for my A goal, five for my B.
For a race that is often won or lost at the mercies of the day’s conditions, marathons have a devastating way of mocking the lifelong efforts put forth by those who revel in its darkness. However, in the highest volume of training I’ve undertaken in my life, this year’s training cycle did offer revelation… A purer perspective on life and sport, a patience for timing and resolve I’ve not known, and a love for self I’ve fought to deny for too long.
Learning how to not be victim of my own circumstances is not a lesson learned in one year.
Out of pleasure or necessity, this year became my reunion with the marathon. Training became a realm into a life reborn; new insight into practices and truths both aged and newly discovered which elevated me towards a fitness and energy I’ve never known. 70 mile weeks have become my comfort. I began to cut through years of doubt and fear like cutting through endless patches of forestry, in search for new world portals. The expedition towards greater goals had begun. The marathon shifted from a portal of pride-soaked suffering to one of self and soul discovery.
This shot was taken at Space Coast marathon in late November. This was not the race I formerly described. Though still very much in progress, I’m way proud of the person I’ve chipped away at, physically and spiritually; I’ll never apologize for that… Thanks for reading and being there along the way.
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#marathon #marathoner #morningrun #endurance #runforlife #fitness
First tour in 2+ years. Took the call back in November, and was the only thing I’d tell people in response to plans for 2022. Zero regrets and so much gratitude that it came through. Thanks @theindiecactus for making Clayton call a Florida area code and getting the crew together again. I defeated some giants on this run, couldn’t have been next to better dudes.
And go follow, listen, purchase all things @rockeupora + @theprescriptions . It’s our salary.
Photography @dylanbasdenphotography
Just like I left it… FL still goes hard. November flew by. The best times always do. **George was Grandma’s CRUSHHH. HE SAID HE CANT WAIT TO MEET YOU SOMEDAY 🕊️ ❤️
Oh hey! Hopping back on for a sec for LIFE UPDATE you’re prob not surprised about… We’re moving back to the sunshine st8. Retiring into full time snow bird. But never retiring. ONE MONTH LEFT. To the best holiday of the year 🥂 🎃
**Also peep the stories for top shelf furniture and a beautiful twin bed I’m selling/donating on the cheap.
Another fun one w the sweet folks of @brnd.house , this time at @hotelfraye . The goofiness may have come out a bit… I have a lot of jackets. (Photos by @sam_frawley )
