Goal, Support System, and Reason---CHECK

Over the years I've run for different reasons. It started as therapy, due to leg defects at birth, then it evolved into an identity, then an outlet, and soon it became my eyes. At some points I just went through the motions because I had been doing it for so long. At other points, I did it because I felt it was the only thing I had control over in my life or the only familiar thing left. I've run for people that physically can't, I've run to prove points, I've also run simply because I can and it feels right. Now, as the training for the MIAMI MARATHON has officially begun, I'm starting to think about the reasons that I will be competing on February 2nd 2014.
 
Without a clear, strong goal,  well-based support system, and highly motivating reason, it's  hard to stay committed to your training, even harder lace up for workouts before the sun comes up, and  close to impossible to roll out of bed on the weekends.

This coming February, at the Miami 1/2 Marathon, I'll be representing TEAM SOLERUNNERS and running to support a movement that some pretty incredible friends of mine are investing their lives in: ROOTS OF HOPE.

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Roots of Hope was founded in 2003 by a group of college students. It began with an interest in Cuba, an interest in getting to know their roots, their counterparts on the island and their history. It started with a conference between Georgetown and Harvard’s Cuban-American student groups entitled Raices de Esperanza (Roots of Hope). Since then it has grown into a movement of young people, from all over the world, working to help their counterparts on the island by providing resources, information and solidarity.

I have been impressed with the real love they are bringing to real people miles off our coasts here in Miami, who may be inspired to believe in something better, a brighter future, a different tomorrow because of the work their organization does. In the last couple years I've caught a glimpse of the lighter fluid fueling the fire in their eyes. The world needs more people like them---- people that stand for change and more importantly, stand for HOPE!

What's your GOAL? "Shoot for the moon, cause if you miss, you'll still land among the stars." Cheezy as it may sound, it's true! DREAM BIG! Imagine the possibilities of where your training can take you if you commit to putting in the time. Try to take some time out to formaulate a GOAL that's a little more complex than: I want to FINISH or I want to RUN. It can range from setting yourself the goal that you will NOT WALK or you hit a certain time.

Who's your Support System? SURROUND yourself with people who believe in you, will encourage you to make the better decisions, will keep you in line, will keep you accountable, and will be there with you every step of the way! There lots of options out there so don't DO IT ALONE!  It's a long journey and it becomes so much more than just a race when you see teammates and training partners turn into lifelong friends and family. TEAM FDC & SoleRunners offers you a structured training guide, group runs, resources from what should or shouldn't go into your mouth to what you should and shouldn't put on your feet.

What's your Reason? Use this race to inspire a friend, you set an example for your family (especially your kids), and make those miles count double! Run for Roots is just ONE of many worthwhile causes. Just like this, there are many amazing organizations that are changing the world around us, LOOK FOR ONE has special meaning to you, in which you can help.

Well I have my goal, my support system, and my reason... so I'm ready for the kick off of this 1/2 Marathon Training Journey....Question now is, Are you? 

Run for Roots is an opportunity for every participant in the US to form a connection with a young person on the island, and for our counterparts in Cuba to feel our support and friendship first-hand. The new year has always been a time to reground and refocus: what better way to do so than to support Roots of Hope and get in great shape in the process? We welcome runners, joggers, and even walkers to sign up. and will have a comprehensive training program to help everyone stay focused and on track. We will also be pairing runners by city to offer support and running buddies. In the end, all of our work pushes towards a day when youth in Cuba can freely participate in open exchanges about their ideas, hopes, dreams, and realities.

VISIT RUN FOR ROOTS