Why I Run FBR - Lynnette Beer
Another in our Why I Run FBR series. Lynette describes her first run with FBR and why she plans to keep coming back.
I have been an active person since I can remember. Running is one of the many activities that I have always enjoyed and feel a need to do for balance. I currently don't consider myself a serious runner and for the past few years have set my goal to run a 5k every time I do run. I heard about FBR about a year ago before I moved back into the neighborhood. Once I got back into my running routine when I returned in March, I debated on whether or not I should go for it and what it would be like to run with others. I have always been a solo runner, as running is almost meditative for me, it strengthens my focus. I imagined running with other people would involve talking while running, so was not into the idea of running with groups. I was excited and nervous for my first meet-up on Susquehanna street though I felt some comfort in knowing I would probably see a few familiar faces. My first fun was a few weeks ago and we ran a route that went mostly down Columbus Boulevard, headed to the Shamrock Pub. It was about a 4 mile run which was an extra mile than what I usually do on the treadmill. We all started off together and then people broke down into their own paces. I was good for about 3.5 miles and then I pushed through and made it almost the entire way, walking it out in the end. Also, running outside has added the extra challenge of varied terrain and inclines. To top things off, that day also happened to be a special event in three ways; it was the day Runners World was coming to shoot us for it's fall issue, a fundraiser for the Veteran Boxers Association Scholarship Fund and David's 50th birthday!
That first run I did see a few familiar faces and also met, what have already become, a few new great friends. I hadn't planned on running with a group as a way to meet new people, I just figured it might motivate me to run regularly. The experience thus far, three weeks in,has been amazing. I look forward to meeting up every Thursday to see what adventure we are in for, to continue be inspired by others and seeing everyone smiling faces. CHEERS! To the Professor.
Lynnette Beer