The Glory of Courage
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 06:20PM 
Sometimes it is enough to say that we made it to the finish line, or even just to start. I see countless examples of people’s exceptional courage to start and often finish events that for them was a daunting task. All too often we are shell shocked by stories of glory and conquest, and we miss the less glamorous foundations of success.
All year long I pursued a goal of making it to the world championship duathlon age group race in Concord, NC. After months of preparation the date arrived, ironically, all too quickly. In my training for this goal, I sustained a stress fracture in my left foot which did not allow me to focus on my running which was going to play a key role in the 10k run/40k bike/5k run event. I knew that I was going to be in trouble from the start, my warm up was painful and I hoped that I could make it to the last 5k of the race in a strong position and with my left foot intact.
With my wife and son in attendance I needed no further motivation to perform. The race began in rain soaked conditions and at the sound of the horn we began the 1st leg of the race at lightning speed. It did not take long for me to realize that my body was going to fail me. At the 1mile mark my stress fracture gave way and I snapped the 2nd metatarsal in half. With another 8miles to run and a challenging bike leg looming around the corner I focused on getting to transition where my families support would help guide me.
My world championship race ended just as fast as it began, but I finished and kept a promise to everyone that has supported me all year. I gave my best and as I stood on the podium receiving my bronze medal I was proud to be representing my country with my family by my side.
Bones heal and there is always another race around the corner, but the memories of the experience will stand the test of time. Thank you to everyone that helped get me to the start and finish line. The end of season has arrived for me just in time to focus on the beginning of something special, the expectation of a new sibling for my son.
Reader Comments (4)
Amazing story. Congratulations! Heal up fast.
Awesome job and congrats to you and Nancy!
Congratulations on the new member of the family.
Your dedication to the task, whether your own or ours, is always truly remarkable. Your effort is astounding, and your success under such physical stress is astonishing. Congratulations Eneas- and so glad to hear the Target family is growing!