Runners Show Up

Runners show up.

We show up at races when it is pouring, we show up for group runs in August when our shoes appear to be melting due to the oppressive Southwestern Georgia heat, we even show up when we really aren’t supposed to be running due to injury. We show up because every little bit counts.

The city of Albany suffered devastating destruction on January 3, 2017 due to severe straight-line winds, as reported by the National Weather Service. Massive power outages, flooding, and incredible amounts of downed trees plagued the city.

Tuesday night is the weekly Wild Side Group Run. This group run is a staple in the Good Life City Runners (GLCR) training schedule. It is always a great gathering where even a first-time participant leaves with a new set of friends.

This Tuesday the mission of the group run was different. Instead of running together we were asked to lend a hand for our community. The response was immediate and soon instead of pounding the pavement runners were clearing trees and debris from the surrounding neighborhood.

The very next day another message reached the group asking for help at a specific location. Again, the runners showed up, soon over 25 people arrived with chainsaws and willing attitudes. Not only were homes cleared of trees, but the spirits of the people helped were renewed.

Many in the running community look to running for a sense of personal renewal; I trust I can speak for us all when I say, it was the most satisfying workout I have witnessed in quite a while.

Runners show up. Not only to races, but to the ultimate team building race. The one we call life.

- Jennifer Perkins