Reported By: OTHELIA JOY, Directed By: DAVIES CHIRWA
LIGHTS, CAMERA, RUN
That’s what it seems like for these talented, world class, olympic bound USATF runners from various parts of the United States who graced Thursday evening’s Distance Classic Meeting.
Channel A Television was in the mix as we witness some of the most record breaking runners of national and world championship practice and prepare for an enticing, competitive race with their peers. We were also privileged to conduct a few interviews and go in dept of what it really takes to be a professional runner. From the interviews, we learned that the path is not easy, but with perseverance and zeal, one can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Of course there will be highs and lows, days you may want to quit and throw in the towel, but understanding the craft yields the greatest results.
Being surrounded by greatness, Channel A Television received insight of one of the oldest sports which dates back to 776 B.C. — Running/Track and Field. It includes 100m sprints, 200 sprints, 400m dashes, 800m runs, etc. Training sessions are intensive and includes weights, stretches, long jogs and conditioning runs, short distances intervals, sprinting and any other running to get the athlete in shape. One fun fact that we gained was that after each race, sitting and resting was a huge no; running again was the way to cool down. Isn’t that interesting? That’s what makes these champions spectacular at what they do.
Two things to consider as a USATF professional runner: 1) faith in oneself – believing that you have what it takes to conquer your dreams and reach the level of achievement that gives you chills. 2) Knowing your strengths and weakness. No athlete is perfect and challenges such as injuries are bound to happen, but with the right attitude and determination, the sky is your limit in achieving everything you set your mind to.
