In Favor Of Standing On The Sidelines
Some thoughts from my time in Boston.
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There is almost nothing that brings me more joy than cheering on other people — especially when it comes to other runners. I capped off seven days in Boston last week with doing that on Marathon Monday, rooting for friends (and a lot of total strangers) running the 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Copley Square. Parked somewhere along the runner’s right side of Heartbreak Hill, I clapped and rallied as athletes cruised by for hours. I stood there witnessing every aspect of human emotion, from pure elation and excitement to sadness and frustration. My sole purpose that day was to try to make other people smile more. Nothing else mattered. Not my inbox. Not my to-do list. Not my sporadic plantar fasciitis. (But damn, is it annoying.) And their sole mission? To get to the finish line. Each person with their own story. Their own goals. Their own why.
What if we chose to do that more often? I know, I know. No, not like in an I’m-gonna-flake-on-my-other-responsibilities, way. I’m not saying ditch your day job. But what if we all just made an effort to embrace spectator life with more regularity. To cheer on that friend, family member, or coworker without wanting anything in return. To put aside whatever else we may be dealing with to simply bring goodness into the lives of others.
That feels good to me. Mission, accepted.
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Loving: ArtSnacks
I met a Hurdler (hey, Sarah!) last week who is the co-founder of this awesome delivery box company called ArtSnacks — a monthly subscription box containing full-size, high-quality art supplies curated to inspire you. I’m obsessed with the idea (school supply shopping used to be my favorite time of year). Bonus: She’s offering the community a discount! Redeem 20% off your first month of a new subscription by entering the code “HURDLE20” at ArtSnacks.co/ before June 30th, 2022.
I’m Reading: In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
From Chelsey: “I typically reach for a non fiction or memoir, but was gifted this book and am so appreciating the change of pace. Many people deem this a read-in-one sitting novel and although I didn't finish in one day, it's on the top of my list of this year's reads!”
I’m Reading: Bandit Running’s B-Mail
My friends over at Bandit Running recently launched a bi-weekly newsletter, complete with some really great storytelling. I particularly loved this piece by Sarah Gearhart on Aingeru Zorita, a Brooklyn-based fashion photographer who recently ran arguably the toughest foot race on earth: Marathon Des Sables.
Gear I’m Loving: Goodr PHGs
It’s officially that time of year again where the sun is up when I’m heading out for my morning workout. I’ve been addicted to my Goodr PHGs, a new style that works great for sport but looks cute to rock whenever. Use “HURDLE15” at checkout for 15% off at Goodr.com.
Quote I’m Loving: "Failing at something doesn't make one a failure it means you are learning." — Molly Seidel, on Instagram recapping her experience at the Boston Marathon
Thanks to my friends at InsideTracker for sponsoring this week’s newsletter.
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For a limited time, you can get 26% off the entire InsideTracker store. Simply click here, and use “HURDLE26” at checkout.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: 203. LIVE With Des Linden, 2018 Boston Marathon Champion & 50K World Record Holder
I wanted to throw 2X Olympian into the title, too, but I think it started to get a little long. This was the perfect week to welcome DES LINDEN back to the show! Had the honor of sitting down with Des live in Boston on last Saturday night, and excited to bring this conversation to the feed for episode 203. The whiskey fan's third time on the show, Des and I chat about everything from her new role as Brooks Running's Chief Running Advisor to her goals for the sport going forward. Plus: How she's so "good" at keeping her blinders on and ignoring the haters, plus how she's conquered big hurdles in her career like injury and coming up short.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: #HURDLEMOMENT: Two Pro Runners Reveal Their Beginner Marathon Tips & Tricks
Welcome Dakotah Lindwurm and Annie Frisbie, professional runners with Puma, to the show! I sat down with these two ladies up at the Run Puma House Boston Marathon week, and we dove into their top tricks and tips for lacing up for 26.2. From fueling and clothing to stress-beating strategies and top-notch advice, we're leaving no stone unturned with this one. Have more questions? Leave me a voice message!
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.