While it has set me back and now has meant that I will have to pass on running the Melbourne Marathon and a 50km event later this year. I still want to be involved and so I have volunteered for these events to enabled me to view the event in a different light. (the 50km event is the Upstream Foundation run and will be held in November 2009)
Just as it had back in 2007 where my role was to setup those goodie bags that one gets at the end of the running events on the Melbourne marathon day. Now last year I was able to run, though unfortunately I cramped my legs, nonetheless I finished the event. This year however my role was as a gatekeeper ('Arena Gate Guard' I was called) where my role was to ensure that only authorised individuals were allowed onto the field.
Now it was through this experience that I was able to view the marathon in another dimension, and that is through the eyes of the supporting family and friends. It was on that day, that I was able to share a moment, a special moment, whom I saw were fighting back some of the tears (including some of my own I must admit), as I was able to see and re-live some of the passion, courage, and triumph through that moment.
I saw the legacy, the kindness and the ability of the runner, and I was feeling quite privileged and grateful to experience such a precious moment like it. It meant something very special to them, this running event - the crowd, the MCG and the memories. It will be something that I will always treasure and think about right into the future, especially as I run this event year after year! Melbourne marathon - I will see you next year! :)
