Why I Run

People often ask me why I run.

My standard answer is along the lines of "Because I can, because I enjoy it, because it makes me feel good, because I like being outdoors."

They look at me, slightly bemused. "So you like running? OK, I sort of get that even though it just causes me pain. But why don't you just do a 10k or a half marathon or even a marathon?"

I sigh. 

"Because city marathons are boring. I like being out in the countryside, in the hills and mountains. I like the solitude, the escapism and the sense of wonder as I look around. Sometimes you just get those sublime moments."

They grin, a little more bemused. "I get the hills bit; they can be very nice. But why run up them? And why not just go for a few miles like normal people."

"Because I like to push myself, test myself, push the envelope."

"Because I like the sense of camaraderie during a race."

"The sense of well-being and accomplishment after a day out, and the boost to self-esteem after finishing an ultra-marathon, a big event, is so great, so acute."

"Oh really!"

"Well, you either get it or you don't!"

Here are some more pictures and these are just from this year. Just a few captured moments in time but they are why I run.

Ok, so there is one more reason why I run.......

Happy days!!