I wanted to share something motivational with you as 2019 draws to a close and a new decade is about to begin. And here it is. MKRunning gold star goes to Bob! Congratulations Bob for running around the world. Why did you do it? How far is that? How long did it take? What will you do next?
Bob’s the “real deal”, a Sunshine Coaster who received the rare “ONCE AROUND THE WORLD” Medal ordered specially from Europe for him. Presented by his friends, in a Coffee Chasers’ social on December 8, 2019 in Gibson’s, B.C.. in the presence of many friends and fellow runners. He was also presented with a special custom made trophy by Harvey Sexsmith, a fellow runner.
Bob runs with the Coffee Chasers in Gibson’s B.C., on Sundays… same group I frequent. He’s low key. Self described as “…been running for a long time, but still have the ability to look like it’s my first time…”. His “first timer demeanour” fooled many, myself included.
How can you run with somebody weekly and not know something like this? (I have no answer).
How Did He Accomplish This?
He persevered. Never gave up, despite some serious physical setbacks along the way. Just kept at it year after year after year.
How Long Did It Take?
From 1976 to 2019. Bob just turned 73.
Bob was motivated by the desire for fitness. He began jogging around a high school track in 1976. Neither an athlete nor a fast runner, he slowly started to run regularly, rain or shine. As the distance he could run became longer, he entered many “fun runs” as they were known then. Then it happened. Late November 2019. OMG…. around the world!
That’s 24,901 miles or 40,075 kilometres – the measured distance around the world. All his figures and distances were audited.
What Will It Be Next, Bob? Bob’s still contemplating and taking a bit of time to celebrate his monumental accomplishment.
Still persevering. Still running 3 times a week and covering about 100 kilometres a month. Definitely quite fit now.
I’ll let you know when Bob sets his next running goal.
For 2020, what will your goals be? Do please let me know. Will you persevere like Bob? I know I’m going to try.
Happy running!
- Mary
