We had a great turnout tonight at the post-race celebration dinner. I swear, this really was a celebration. Everyone that was there was in such a positive headspace. We were all sharing stories about our race results. It’s like everyone regaled each other with tales of triumph and perseverance. From what I heard a good number of people in the clinic actually attained a time of less than two hours. Given that the average is about 2:09, under 2 hours is rather fast. We had one person actually come in under 1:30. I know I say it every clinic, but this truly was a speedy clinic. I’m a bit sad that it’s over, but it’s time to let go. I’ve done a great job and they’ve benefitted. This downtime is my time to re-centre.

Back on Tuesday, I stood in front of my running group for the final time in this clinic. I was animated as I tried to give last minute tips to my group of soon-to-be racers. My group was cheerful and in good spirits. And just like that the talk ended and they were all out for their 10K run. At some point I was sort of expecting to feel somewhat sad about the fact that it was all over. I mean, I was pretty happy with this group. They were enthusiastic and responded well to my style of coaching. So, knowing how I function I really thought that I’d somehow get emotional. I’m glad that I didn’t though. I was happy to send them out. I know I did a great job. A large portion of them are running a half marathon for the first time on Sunday. I have absolutely no doubt that these people are ready! They’ve trained earnestly and honestly over the past 17 weeks. All of the effort will surely pay off. I no longer play a role in their performance–it’s all up to them. Job well done, Jason. A time for rest will arrive soon enough.

As you know I’m once again coaching a half marathon clinic. To some extent I seem to be well received as a coach. I do my best to inspire my group and keep them motivated. Even though this is now my third time leading this distance, it’s not like my leading style hasn’t changed. My emails still remain consistent. My routes are characteristic–if someone in the know saw one of my routes they’d be able to point out that it’s probably mine. No, to me I feel like me speaking style has changed. I would guess that the first time I ran this clinic I must have been a little shy and visibly nervous. There must have been nights where the doubt must have been visible in my eyes. These days I almost feel like I’m more open and a bit more brash when I talk. I trust that I know what I’m doing. I have a lot of knowledge to offer, and I’m going to make sure people listen. If people are doing something silly I’m going to call them out on it. I know what I want for my clinic. My goal is to get to the end with minimal injuries among the group. I will be vocal to make sure people are paying attention. Heh, of course, this isn’t to say that I’m strict. Nah, I do my best to maintain my levels of positivity. If not me, then who else, right? What I’m saying is that there’s no reason for me to be shy. I’m good at what I do. I know that people will benefit one way or another.