When Paulina, one of our new contributors, informed us she was running the Broad Street Run this year we knew she had to document her day. I’m not a runner myself but have admiration for those who run. Great job Paulina and maybe we’ll get all the whole Philly PR Girl team to run with you next year!
It wasn’t until Thursday until I was able to ride my bike to school without swerving into parked cars from the excruciating pain in my legs. I had been living with this pain that was unlike any other for almost a week. Spending over eight years as a competitive rower and swimmer, I’ve become accustomed to muscle aches. While they’ve contributed to a lot of wins, no pain has ever been this rewarding… because what I felt was for Boston.
On April 15, 2013, the world was traumatized by the unspeakable acts of the Boston bombings, especially among the running community. During the 34th Annual Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run, we put aside all our sporting pride and supported our Beantown friends. The city of Brotherly Love opened their hearts and laced up their sneakers to come together for another city, and I feel truly lucky to have been a part of such a memorable day. It was filled with emotions as I watched an impeccable community gather in a sea of “red sox.”
In the weeks leading up to the race, I spent countless hours obsessively perusing runners’ blogs, magazines, and online forums about how to prepare for my first time. I worried about a lack of preparation, perfecting my playlist, and planning weather-appropriate attire. Though after that tragic Monday morning, I suddenly realized the race became a whole lot bigger than me – and 39,000 other participants. It didn’t matter how many miles I logged or which Nike shorts I wore… All that mattered was running for Boston.
I woke up the morning of May 5th with some nerves but a stronger sense of purpose. I needed to set my innumerable anxieties aside, put on my sparkling new red socks, and slap my “From Philly to Boston with Love” sticker across my heart, and run for Boston. When the moment finally came, I couldn’t have done it without the undying support of the residents of Philadelphia along the entire course. From offering high-fives and loud cheers to playing the Boston favorite, “Sweet Caroline,” my tenacity would have never been enough to finish without them. As I approached the grueling 7-mile marker, I had to reminded myself of my purpose that day and dig deep, finding the strength to not give up. It was the runners from Boston I was surrounded by that inspired me to finish for not only myself, but for them. I’m proud to say that I met my goal time of < 2 hours without stopping, but I’m more proud say that I’m a part of this amazing Philadelphia community.
