Monday, July 15, 2013

Boston 2014: Why I'm Going Back

Yesterday I was surfing facebook when a friend request appeared.  I clicked on it and didn't recognize the woman at all.  I went to her profile, looked around and saw she was from Boston.

Ok.

A few minutes later a message pops up and it's from her.  Her name is Barb Hudson and she lives in the Cleveland Circle area.  She comes out almost every year to take pictures of the race.  She sent me a note saying that she had taken a picture of me and that I was welcome to tag myself in it.   I accepted her friend request and went looking for the album.

Sure enough I went through all the pics and there I was.  Up close and personal.  And still smiling.   Sort of. 


I was amazed that someone had actually taken the time to go through all their pictures, find out the name of each runner and then reach out to them to let them know there was a picture of them from the race.

This is how our conversation unfolded:




I'm going back because of people like Barb.  Folks like her make Boston the race that it is.   I consider it an honor to have these people cheering for us crazy runners.  I'm sure that most people would agree, the spectators make the race.

To Barb and all the other spectators that will be lining the streets next year, I look forward to coming back and celebrating with you.   As Barb so aptly puts it:

She's right.  Goodness WILL prevail.  Of that I am certain.

6 comments:

Krysten Siba Bishop said...

And this may or may not have made me cry! This is why I LOVE RUNNING!!

I don't think I will ever qualify for Boston. But I really want to go! Maybe I can sign on with one of the charity teams!

GO GIRLIE!

Danielle @ Work It. Wear It. Eat It. said...

Yes!!!!!!!!!!

You're right, if the spectators didn't show up to races, I might not show up either.

Way to go!

Unknown said...

Wow how awesome are strangers - they show us that there is kindness in the world! You're going to kick butt again girl and are an inspiration! xo

Coach Jen said...

How great! I will also be back at Boston 2014. I was not at the race this year after running in 2011, 2012 I decided a year off but only after much contemplation when something told me to stay home. It hit me hard since both years prior my family including 3 yr old were at the finish area and could have easily been injured or worse.

Phaedra Kennedy said...

Thanks Guys! Krysten, I am totally with you. Things like this are exactly why I love the running community.
Danielle - I am totally with you. Marathons with little spectators are REALLY tough.
Kat - I agree! I got quite emotional telling my hubby about all this. And thank you for your support & kind words. xo
Marathon Mom - I hear you! I kept thinking what if....but we can't think that way because that means that the bad guys have won and we'll never let that happen. :)

Beka said...

WOW! That is awesome. Barb is a saint. Maybe one day I will qualify for Boston and meet you lady!