Whether you ran in the New York City Marathon or simply challenge yourself every day, this will inspire you.
I used to watch marathons on TV and thought all the runners were professional athletes or sports enthusiasts. This is so far from the truth. A runner can be anyone with a determined spirit. Some say you can find your spirit during the run. Some find the spirit to feel free. Some find the spirit stay connected. In the spirit of the TCS New York City Marathon this past weekend, I share personal stories with you about the inner runner.
This year, Foot Locker and ASICS America focused on the inner runner with their documentary campaign called Real Lives. Real Runners. The campaign invited filmmakers to document runners from all walks of life to show the positive impact running has on our lives.
The winner of the campaign, director Evan Ari Kelman, had his short film, The Push,
broadcast during this year’s TCS New York City Marathon. Kelman documented Marco Reininger, a war veteran and New York City resident, who runs daily as an homage to his brothers in the service. During his run, he reflected on his time in active duty and on his motivation to give more and push harder. In a recent interview with Reininger, here is what he shared about inspiring others through this project:
“When Evan contacted me about The Push, I immediately dug the idea of telling a story that focused on perseverance and teamwork. These days, military and veteran-related stories often focus on trauma and burden. I’m glad we got to put out a more hopeful message.
From the feedback we received, I know that the video jolts people and reminds them of the strength and team spirit they already carry inside. In the military, you’re nothing without your team, and as a country, we’re nothing without a sense of community and love for one another. That was the crucial point for me in The Push – vets reaching out and keeping each other strong, the way they do in uniform. It’s a very American thing to do. If the video helps re-ignite that attitude in folks who need a little push, and gets Americans interested in engaging more with vets in an unafraid, open way, then we did our job.”
Watch: The Push
Zoe Koplowitz
Zoe holds the record for the longest marathon time in the history of women’s running. She currently holds it with the time 37 hours and 15 minutes which she ran in 2013.
Zoe has suffered from multiple sclerosis for almost 40 years. She will not surrender her mobility to her ailments. She first ran the marathon in 1988 with her crutches and support from members of the Garden Angles. “ The race belongs not only to the swift and strong” she says, “but to those who keep on running.”
Watch: Zoe’s short documentary
I watched the TCS New York City Marathon this year at Mile 23. The determination and will only 3 miles to the finish was inspiring. There were runners of all ages, nationalities, and sizes with one goal: finish the race.
Here are some of the faces of this year’s event at Mile 23
Share your inner runner story and picture: #OSMinnerrunner