Alana Armstrong 

Yesterday, as spring was finally starting to show its face, runners were strapping on their shoes, about to set off on a 26.2 mile adventure called the Boston Marathon. The history, the standards, the competition all make this race particularly special. It’s supposed to be a day of celebration marking the end of months, for some years, of training and a reminder that nothing that you put your mind to is impossible.

For many runners, there’s a story behind their history with the sport. It’s a lifesaver in the darkest moments and a source of endless positivity the rest of the time. The last 24 hours have been an emotional roller coaster and hearts are now heavy. Because while we connect with the runners in Boston and are assured of their safety, we’re also looking forward to the next race and thinking about our own safety. What will the Toronto Marathon look like? What about Chicago, or New York?
These races will go ahead and we’ll run them but it’s devastating to think that even something as pure as putting one foot in front of the other is not safe from the madness in this world.

Where do we go from here? I wondered, as I sat to write this.
Forward. In a rapid motion, and with a steady mid-foot strike.

Our thoughts go out to all of the other running groups and crews and clubs around the world, and to those who run solo, the city of Boston and everyone who has been touched by this tragedy. Running will not bring people back to life or make the injuries less traumatic but with each footstep we take we’ll be moving toward a better tomorrow.  

Take a quite minute on your next run – no music, no thoughts of work or money – and dedicate it to those who couldn’t finish their race and those who may not run again.

Peace and love,
Canada Get Fit