Fryeburg Academy Indoor Track & Field and Coach

My Dad’s a lifelong runner. Not jogger, but runner. He goes out every morning (sometimes insanely early) and over an hour or so later he is back from “his run”. Sometimes all sweaty from the hot humid weather and sometimes with icicles on his ears from the frigid temps of winter in Maine, it really doesn’t matter, he always goes for a run. It’s part of who he is not just something he does. He truly enjoys it and still trains with his running buds and takes in some of the finer racing of the summer months.

Something that has always amazed me is how he keeps up to date on all the up and coming talent that is hitting the track. Records that are being broken, local contenders and events held in Maine. I have always felt that his pleasantly persistent way of encouraging those around him would make for a fantastic coach. Finally! Now that his schedule has freed up a bit as a retired man of leisure he is, as I feel, hitting his stride…. he is a coach! I was able to attend one of his teams indoor meets (also my high school alma mater, go Raiders!) and all I can say is he was in his element. Pointing out the current record holders, encouraging the kids on his roster, taking detailed notes for the next team meeting and chatting with parents. I was so proud to see him doing something he enjoys so much and sharing that with another generation of talent.

I was never much of a runner, I tried in High School but my interests in other sports led me in a different direction. One lesson that my Dad taught me that stuck with me after all these years is that in running it’s always just you and the clock. Your battle is between the two of you alone and the clock never lies. Do your best and the clock rewards you…. don’t show up for the race and there is no hiding from the clock. Never look over your shoulder at what’s behind you…. stare down the finish line! This is a great lesson to learn and is something we can apply to everything in our lives or business. Beat your last milestone and your always making strides. It doesn’t matter what it is… job bookings, days on the slopes, girl scout cookies sold or time spent with family and friends. Don’t look at where others are in relation to you, just keep doing your best. Thanks Dad for being my lifelong coach and congrats on the new career path, I am SO proud of you!

If you would like to view other images from the event please visit my proofing page and click on the FA Track & Field Event at the bottom of the page.