By: Brian Chambers
I have sat down to write this at least a dozen times; each time the words escape me. Superlatives like fantastic, amazing, spectacular all fall far short of truly describing my encounters with the Run2Revive team and the whole Rim2Rim experience. Everyone at Run2Revive is fantastic, amazing, spectacular. Their knowledge and expertise are only exceeded by their commitment and their kindness.
I had never been to the Grand Canyon before – it does not disappoint. Breathtaking, awe-inspiring beauty surrounds you from the moment you step up to the rim and yet, I couldn’t help but feel a bit of trepidation as I tried to envision my trek across the expanse. It is said that every journey begins with one step and that was my belief as I headed down the path.
I thought I was prepared. I really thought I was prepared. I did plenty of miles and hill workouts on a treadmill. I listened to the Run2Revive team with a smidge of skepticism, but I tried to heed their advice and I stocked up on the gear they recommended. I really, really thought I was prepared.
The heat, the sun, the stairs, the incline all took a toll on my body. I did not fuel properly – a Payday candy bar I stuffed in my backpack last minute turned out to be a life saver. It took me almost twice as long as I anticipated, but eventually I made it, thanks to the kind diligence and encouraging words of a certain Run2Revive leader. He simply would not let me quit. Of course, I was at the bottom of the canyon with no way out but up – but without him I might still be at the bottom. I really thought I was better prepared.
I will run again in 2022, provided I am allowed. I hope to bring my grandson along to run with me – or more accurately run ahead of me. I will train differently. I will find the tallest stadium in northwest Indiana, and I will run the stairs endlessly. When I think I am prepared, when I think I have run enough stairs, I will continue to run more and more stairs. I will not conduct all of my workouts in the cool of the morning, instead I will find some time to train in the heat of the day. I will learn how to fuel my body with energy and electrolytes, and I will pack more Paydays – definitely a lot more Paydays.
The Grand Canyon experience was with out a doubt the most challenging and rewarding adventure of my life. I am extremely grateful to the team at Run2Revive; not only for the Rim2Rim run but for their efforts in the fight to prevent and to cure Alzheimer’s and ALS. I admire your relentless determination. I look forward to next year. Until that time may we keep our hearts full and our legs churning.