Hello Bloggy-land. This is Coach EK, once again filling in for our friend B.o.B. Word on the street is that she is up to her eyeballs in magic markers (for making motivational signs) and Chicago hot dogs (for consumption. Diagnosis – delicious!!). And since Lloyd is still mad he was not able to post yesterday, I get to fill in once again. Here we go…..
I had a friend in Chicago (I was born and raised in the South Suburbs), who used to state the phrase “We’re in the minutes”. He would say that when there was under an hour to go at his work. Kind of a “we are in the home stretch” deal.
I use that today specifically for the Chicago Marathoners. Today they are figuratively “in the minutes” until race time tomorrow. There is nothing left to do but relax, hydrate, consume pasta, and get some sleep. All the months of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication are about to pay off. The dreams and hopes and desires are literally around the corner.
And I have to admit something to you all……
I wish I was there. I admit to being envious of them.
I am, by nature and heart, a 5K guy. I have done 9 marathons, including 3 Bostons. So, I know the thoughts going through their heads. And I am glad not to have trained through the Florida summer. And have been able to do my beloved 5K’s.
But, while my body will be parked at this computer watching on-line, my heart and soul will be with my friends (and all the others) who toe the line tomorrow.
So to Gatorate, Speedy Jess, and The Redhead, and the other 39,000 plus competitiors, I wish you all the best of luck tomorrow. Know that I will be with you in spirit as you traverse the city.
Readers – please do me a favor and send good wishes, karma, prayers, whatever, to all the Chicago folks for a great race. I know I will.
Have a Super Saturday.
Coach EK – THAT was an excellent post. We are def in the minute. Thanks again for all your support and encouragement.
Thanks EK for yet another amazing post. This one gave me goosebumps. I am with you on the envy things. Being surrounded by excited runners is amazing and it's hard not to want to jump in with them! LOL!
I hope everyone has a great race. I gotta run, the markers are calling….
Amazing post!! I wish everyone luck tomorrow and hope it's all that you hoped for!!! Good luck!!!
in the minutes…i like that.
i'm thinking of the runners tomorrow!
I wish I was there as well – reliving one of my favorite marathons (first BQ Qualifier in 2006 with 3 of my closest friends, including 2 crossing the finish line after running the entire race together!) Good luck all – especially the BRA folks!
I've been getting syked (spelling?) as well reading all the (ehem) Facebook posts and your blog Coach EK and seeing the pics of the Chicago expo.
I'll be supporting in spirit and through computer waves as a I track them.
B.o.B. make us proud with your magic markers and crafty posterboards!! BTW, I can certainly see that you made the right decision….but will miss you at MCM all the more! (tear)
Let the nail-biting commence……
Hope the race was a great success for all!
Coach EK–I don't know if you are checking the comments but where in the south burbs? My husband is from Riverside and went to Fenwick high school. In fact his parents still live there and own a family business in Lyons. Just curious!
I was born and raised in Harvey, Ill. I went to Thornton Township High School (Go Wildcats!!). I eventually moved to Oak Forest, Ill. Then I made the big move to Florida in 1997.