~:[CH11 - Day 146]:~ Special Moments

 

~:[CH11 - Day 146]:~ Special Moments

I paused as my emotions got the best of me. Recollecting one of my hardest working athletes almost reaching his goal and then falling down just before the finish line was difficult.  I was so deflated inside for him, but at the same moment, so proud. He pushed his limits and still got back up as quickly as possible to finish it off, just missing the qualifying mark. It's easy to see this as a failure, but I hope that these athletes see it as a success - doing all you can to reach what you hope to attain. We will never always get to where we want to be, but we sure can give everything we have to get there. This was that moment. As I continued, I thought about how it was a success for all these athletes to make it to the end. They battled through the pandemic, dealt with the mental strains of coming back, tried to overcome being out of conditioned, and had to balance a schedule they weren't quite used to. Many could have quit and some did, but this group of athletes held tough and made it to the end. There were some rough moments, but I am glad to share these special moments with these athletes who made it here. As I talked about another athlete who is one of the nicest guys around, I was overwhelmed when he came up and gave me a huge embrace. I've always respected him so much for all the hard work he puts in and how genuinely incredible he is, however, today put me over the top. Tonight was filled with special moments and while I was ready to head to bed when I got home, I took a second to reflect, appreciating the opportunity we had to share these special moments together. While soon these days will fade slightly or completely from our memories, these special moments will remain untarnished and remain a constant in our hearts and in our lives. Thank you again to all of our track athletes, parents, supporters and coaches who have put forth so much time and effort to make this program as incredible as it is. All these special moments will truly hold a special place in my heart.