You Ain't Got A Thing, If You Ain't Got That Bling

When it comes to distance running, I may be on a streak that is unmatched in history. It is difficult enough to win one race over the course of a running career. Yet, I have managed to win 11 straight (1 marathon and 10 half-marathons)! This streak has stretched from 2000 until today, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, I fully expect to chalk up two more back-to-back victories in early 2008 in Disney World.

The secret to my success rests not in crossing the finish line first and breaking the tape. Heck, any schmo can pull a Rosie Ruiz and do that. And let me tell you, I am not any schmo! Nope, I am a winner at every race because I have children who believe in me. Like they believe in Santa, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy. Truth be told, Erika is beginning to wonder whether I am really winning. Yes, I come home with a medal from every race - and in our home, it is a FIRST PLACE MEDAL!!!

After each race, whether out-of-town, or local, I come home with "the bling" around my neck, and the kids come running up. "Did you win?", they asked. "Was there ever a doubt?", I respond (ok...think to myself). Then I flash the medal - "Yes, daddy won the race!" Hugs, kisses, great job, smiles. It makes all the hours of training worth it to come home to that reception.

I don't run for fitness. I don't run to visit great locations (Niagara Falls, Virginia Beach, Colorado mountains, Vegas, Disney). I run for the bling. And as a result, I am a winner!