Running really got us through a lot last year. Running kept us fit, sane, and in a lot of ways kept us together. Whether you’ve been at it for some time, or shuttered gyms and yoga studios brought you to the game for the first time… running never really “closed.” And for that, we’re more than grateful.
This time of year sparks a certain amount of retrospect and gratitude in most everyone. That includes our taking stock in all things running. So with the bulk of the calendar behind us, here are just a few of the things that gave us hope, lifted our spirits, or made us better for the effort in 2021.
To our running buddies, families, friends, and coaches. Thank you for the miles you’ve shared with us, the rants you’ve listened to, the grace you’ve extended us, and the hall pass granted to roam the streets, the trails, or wherever else our running moved us. Thank you for being our accountability partners, our sounding boards, our motivation, and our biggest fans.
To the return of In-person events. Can we say enough about this one? Sorry, virtual events. Yes, you got us through some unusual days and times, but you’ll never replace that in-person race day experience. Forget the medals and t-shirts. There’s just something about running together against the clock, the competition, our previous bests, or just for fun.
To all the great places to run around here. We’ve got it really good in the Charlotte area. From gorgeous, tree-lined streets; our accessible and expanding greenways network; hundreds of miles of park paths and trail systems … it’s easy to keep our running fresh and interesting, all within the area. Not a lot of places can make that brag.
To our running clubs, brewery runs, and other weekly meet-ups. Thanks for keeping it fun, friendly, and inclusive. And to the hosts and organizers of these groups and get-togethers; we know you’re in it for all the right reasons. Thank you for keeping this running community connected, and giving us a reason to get out of the house.
To our nonprofit partners, volunteers, and friends. You’re the ones walking the walk. You’re inspiring kids to be their confident, best selves. You’re guiding and encouraging challenged athletes. You’re mentoring someone from homelessness, addiction, or depression. You know why there’s a rake at a water stop and you’re not afraid to use it.
To our guests, experts, and other professionals who shared their time, passion and expertise with all of us over the course of the year. Through them, we’ve learned more about the diversity of our running community, met some incredible people who’ve used running as a vehicle for personal and community change, and gleaned some inspiration from their efforts and adventures.
To our readers, listeners, sponsors, and partners. Cutting it really real here, we couldn’t do it without you, right? The opportunity to connect with all of you is a responsibility we don’t take for granted. You all mean more to us than open rates and downloads. Your feedback, comments, and interest in each other and this community keep us excited about the process and our future together.
Again, thank you!