The Finish Line

Finish lines are what keep us coming back for more.  I've crossed five full sprint distance triathlon finish lines and experienced the natural high that comes after a successful crossing.  Like every other endurance athlete out there, I couldn't help but have vivid thoughts about what those in Mondays' Boston marathon bombing were experiencing at the finish line.

I've also been a spectator and experienced the inspiration, excitement and joy of cheering on family, friends and just those athletes out there exuding their determination.  I previously wrote about stumbling upon the Florence marathon in Italy.  You can't help but be drawn into the athletes' quest for the finish line.

As an athlete, it's the spectators who feed our energy.  High fiving the young girls lining Nantucket's streets remains one of my most favorite race memories.  More than any sports energy gel, spectators fuel our desire to keep pushing ourselves, to be the best we can be as we make our way to the finish line.  For those spectators injured in the blast, we will be cheering for you as you push yourselves to recover, meet new challenges, and cross finish lines you likely never imagined for yourselves.

Sports spectators stay strong!

This week was one very long endurance event for the law enforcement officials in the Boston area.  They were elite athletes as they battled mental and physical pain and extreme conditions that tested their abilities.  In the end, they won.  Not just won, but had a personal best.  As they crossed their finish line, the spectators lined the streets, cheered them on, and gave them high fives.

In less than one month, I hope to cross my sixth triathlon finish line.  I don't think I will ever be able to cross another finish line without thinking about Boston. But, the thoughts won’t be about the bombs – it will be about the heroes who exuded what every endurance athlete demonstrates – strength and determination.  And, I won't stop crossing finish lines for the fear of terrorists.

P.S.  I’m not the only one who feels this way.  My good friend and fellow athlete Antoine Trepant and I found ourselves writing parallel thoughts, in different ways.  He’s crossed many more finish lines than me – and way faster!   Here’s his post:  http://tonio-triathlon.com/2013/04/19/letter-from-boston-thank-you-mr-terrorist/