Last year I set the goal to run 2,014 miles over the course of the year. This goal derailed at the end of August with the birth of my son, and I ended up finishing 2014 with only 1,676.8 miles. As my wife put it, it was too bad we're not living in the 1600's.
I was disappointed to not reach this goal, but like with most goals, I just decided to try again. Bring on 2,015 miles in 2015. It was a pleasant surprise to discover an official challenge launched by the folks behind Run the Edge (Tim Catalano and Adam Goucher). Participants were able to team up with others or complete the challenge solo, and miles could be logged by walking, running, or doing the elliptical. Like in 2014, I opted to do the challenge solo. I also only wanted to count running miles, which would all be outside.
The primary feature of the challenge was a Facebook group with over 17,000 supportive and informative runners all over the world.
Well, in addition to completing the Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday, I also officially crossed the finish line of this challenge.
That's 2,015 miles, all run outside through all kinds of weather. I ran through snow, sleet, rain, humidity, heat, and cold. As early as 4:30 in the morning and as late as 11:30 at night. On snow, dirt, pavement, asphalt, tracks, sand and grass. On the beaches of South Florida. Through the suburbs of South Jersey. In the hills of Ithaca, NY. On the city streets of Berlin and Munich. In big city races and small town races and even a Pennsylvania nudist resort. I ran with my local running/beer club and completely by myself. I ran every single day, sometimes logging as little as one mile, occasionally logging 26.2.
It is incredibly satisfying to not only complete a goal that I missed the first time around, but to look back and remember all it took to accomplish it.
Run the Edge is offering the same challenge in 2016 with a completely revamped website and brand new participant perks. I won't be taking part next year since I need a break from high mileage, but I highly recommend this challenge to anyone looking for a long term and different kind of running goal.
As their slogan goes, get out there and make fit happen.
This is awesome! I can't believe I'd never heard of this challenge. That bling has to be the most well deserved. It's like you finished a year-long race. Congratulations!
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