Three.
That’s the magic number. Yes, it is. It’s the magic number.
Three is also the day of the month on which I was born. It was the number of my favorite Red Sox player growing up. It has since become my lucky number. And three is also the number of marathon medals I will have (hopefully) collected by April 20th.
My first, the 2014 Boston Marathon, was an experience like no other. I trained religiously for four months to ensure myself that I could make it to the finish line. This was something I always wanted to do, and I was finally taking that step. More importantly, I was doing it for my city. I needed to make sure I was ready. I prepared, and I ran with a purpose.
My second, the Disney Marathon this past January was a very different experience. I, self-admittedly, slacked on the training and was not sure what to expect going into it. I took more of a relaxed approach and enjoyed the experience of running through the theme parks and seeing all of the characters. I finished the race and did, surprisingly, much better than I thought I would.
My third, next month’s 2015 Boston Marathon, will likely be my last marathon. When I finished my first in a time just over four hours (4:08:44 – but who’s keeping score?), I was determined to run it again in under four hours. I knew I could shave off some time if I made high fives less of a priority, and cut out the brief sideline pit stops with my fans. But now, I’m have a different outlook. With this likely being the final chapter in “Vince’s Book of Marathons” (working title), I don’t want to cut out the high fives or the pit stops. At all. In fact, I want more of them. Time is not a concern for me anymore. I want to enjoy this one as much as possible. I mean, after all, three IS the magic number.
So, with just a little over a month to go until Marathon Monday, I’m going to take it all in stride and make the most of what’s left of my marathon experience. One of the biggest things that gives me enjoyment from running is being a part of the Miles For Miracles team from Boston Children’s Hospital. It makes me happy knowing that every single dollar that I raise will go toward the amazing work that is done each and every day by the members of BCH, at 160 locations around the world. Yup, you read that correctly. BCH doesn’t just help people in their backyard. Their impact is felt worldwide.
I set a lofty fundraising goal this year, because I strongly support the work they do and I am confident that with your help, we can reach that goal. Together, we will be making a difference and positively impacting the lives of those who need our help.
Donations can be made here: http://fundraise.childrenshospital.org/goto/vincerunsboston. Thank you in advance for any and all support!
42 days to go…
-V
