I started training and racing marathons and ultramarathons in 2007. Prior to 2007, I trained primarily in judo, with running as an exercise to stay in shape and keep my body weight down. Because of an injury in 2006 I couldn’t do judo, so I started running for rehabilitation and to stay in shape.
Running in the various parks and trails in the South Bay soon got me hooked on running. I entered my first race January 20th 2007, the Pacifica 50 kilometer, which was probably the single most painful experience of my life. But after the soreness had faded I realized that despite the pain, I had a great time, met nice people, and that I wanted to do another endurance event. So I signed up for my first marathon the “Big Sur International Marathon.”
Running Big Sur showed me how the positive energy and excitement of the marathon can change lives. At this point, running had become my next passion and I was faithfully waking up early every morning, and logging my daily miles. My next goal was to run a 50 mi. ultramarathon, which I accomplished at the White River 50mi. in Washington State. Running up and down mountains and through old forest growths for 9 hours was a renewing experience.
In 2007 I ran a wide variety of distances and venues, yet all the races taught me lessons about myself, and the feeling of accomplishment (and relief!) when crossing the finishing line.
"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you...
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves (John Muir)."
