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Vol. IV No. 26 · 16 March 2001 |
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B.U. Bridge is published by the Boston University Office of University Relations.
Why
I'm running
Countdown to the 105th Boston Marathon -- Monday, April 16, 2001
Next month, I'll be running my fifth marathon -- and my third Boston. The reasons why runners run marathons are hard to explain; many people ask, "Why would you run that far if no one is chasing you?"
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Stephanie
Burke. |
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Running a marathon is a challenge. Meeting this challenge and crossing the finish line is a wonderful feeling of accomplishment -- one that's unparalleled and hard to describe.
I'm not a very fast runner -- 4:08 is my personal record. However, in a marathon it doesn't matter how fast you go; it matters whether you can mentally overcome the challenges you face while running the 26.2 mile distance. Your will must be strong -- if not stronger -- than your legs.
Boston is unique because of the spectators. Even for those of us who finish several hours after the elite runners, there are still tireless fans cheering along the course. Nothing comes close to that -- the roar as you approach Wellesley College, the students by Boston College, the people in Kenmore Square, and everyone lining the route to the finish line.
I'm truly excited and happy to have a number and to once again be competing in this athletic event known the world over. Where else but in running can you share the same course with some of the very best athletes in the world?
To those running the upcoming marathon, my best wishes for a good run. To those considering it, I encourage you to train and try a marathon.
-- Stephanie Burke, senior reference and law librarian, Pappas Law Library
CALLING ALL MARATHONERS -- The B.U. Bridge would like to know if you're planning to run in the 105th Boston Marathon this April -- and why. Are you running to fulfill a dream, to support a great cause, to honor the memory of a loved one, or to challenge yourself? Please send your name, your University affiliation, and the reason you're running to B.U. Bridge, 10 Lenox St., Brookline, MA, 02446 or e-mail to bridge@bu.edu.
16
March 2001
Boston University
Office of University Relations