There is something about running that keeps drawing me back, even when life gets complicated.
With the Brenda Bryant Memorial 5K Walk/Run coming up on October 24 and the Richmond Half Marathon in November, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about my relationship with running and what these races mean to me.
Training hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing.
Between working long hours, managing everyday responsibilities, and dealing with some ongoing health challenges, there have been days when simply getting out the door has felt like an accomplishment.
And yet, I keep coming back to running.
More Than Miles
For me, running has never been just about pace, distance, or collecting medals.
It’s one of the few activities where I can disconnect from everything demanding my attention and simply exist in the moment.
There’s a certain freedom in finding my rhythm, listening to my breathing, and allowing my thoughts to settle.
Some runs feel effortless. Others remind me that my body has limitations, even when my determination doesn’t.
I’m learning to appreciate both.
Running With Purpose: The Brenda Bryant Memorial 5K
The Brenda Bryant Memorial 5K Walk/Run holds a special place in my heart.
As a graduate of Mary Baldwin University and the Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership, this event represents more than an opportunity to run another race.
It’s a chance to honor Dr. Brenda Bryant’s legacy, reconnect with the VWIL community, and celebrate the relationships and experiences that helped shape who I am today.
I’m especially looking forward to seeing alumni, cadets, and supporters come together for something meaningful.
Sometimes the most important part of a race isn’t the finish line. It’s the people and the purpose that bring us to the starting line.
Looking Ahead to Richmond
Then comes November and the Richmond Half Marathon.
Thirteen-point-one miles.
I’ve completed half marathons before, but each training cycle brings its own challenges and lessons.
This time, I’m trying to approach the experience with a little more patience and a little less pressure.
I’ve learned that progress doesn’t always look like faster miles or longer runs. Sometimes it looks like taking an extra rest day, adjusting a training plan, or recognizing when my body needs attention.
I still have goals. I still want to challenge myself. But I also want to enjoy the process of getting there.
Finding My Stride Again
As these two races approach, I’m reminding myself why I started running in the first place.
Not because I needed to prove anything to anyone.
But because running makes me feel alive.
It gives me an opportunity to challenge myself, explore my limits, and appreciate what my body can do.
My hope for these upcoming races is simple: to arrive healthy, enjoy the experience, and cross each finish line knowing that I respected both my goals and my body along the way.
Because sometimes finding your stride isn’t about running faster.
It’s about remembering why you love to run.
Are you training for a fall race, returning to running after a break, or simply trying to stay active? I’d love to hear what’s keeping you motivated this season.
