I run because I can.

I run because it matters.

I run because it makes me feel alive.

I run because I love the peace of the open road.

I run because I need my regular dose of girlfriend time.

I run because I am a little bit crazy and sometimes completely nuts.

I run because I like to eat ice cream.

I run because Epilepsy does not define me.

I run because a brain injury does not stop me.

I run because I love to see humanity in its purest form. The raw anticipation, excitement, bliss, bite me, relief and WOW I did it!

Every runner has a story. Some thing, some event, some life-story that gives us the desire to pound the pavement for a ridiculous number of miles and a ridiculous amount of time. There is a story in front of each step, in each step and behind each step.

Running is not about the destination. Running is about the journey. The journey of endurance, perseverance and the glorious victory of covering the distance.

I run because it is simple.

I run because I simply love it.

I’m running Chicago, because that’s the way I roll.

Copyright © Gatewood Campbell, September 2011