We only become better, if you become better: NYC Marathon 2012

NYC Marathon 2012: didn’t happen-yes.
It was this same day, a year ago that I went to the gym and did my last 4 mile run before the big day. I was hesitant to do the run because there was speculation that it might be cancelled due to hurricane sandy. But it was confirmed as of Friday 5pm. So I left work and knew I had one short run and one suitcase to pack in front of me. I was headed to NYC!
I ran that run (slow) and was so ready to take in the experience. It was the New York City Marathon. And I had prepared 12 weeks for this. I was ready. I was excited for the 26 mile tour. I left the gym on cloud 9, ready to take on the world.
Then the texts and calls came in: is it still happening, where are you, did you leave yet, did you hear?
I quickly googled what I could. Sure enough, the race was cancelled. I understood why it was cancelled. People were under water; they didn’t have food, power, transportation. NYC needed help.
And it was up to us NYC Marathoners to help where we could. We were sad, disappointed; but above all, we were there to help everyone else. Our sport is about the greater good-we only become better if you become better.
I’m proud to say we joined together to raise money, food, clothing; and deliver to those on need. We stood together to do what we could for those impacted. We gave $800/night hotel rooms to those without a home. We ran on foot to Long Island to bring water/food on our backs to those in need. We ran clothing and food drives. We ran to those in need-wherever whenever.
I’ve never seen runners rise above and give back like I did a year ago tomorrow. And I’m so proud to be amongst you.