HS Bloggers: Kirstin Sandreuter Greely HS #8

Follow Greely HS distance star Kirstin Sandreuter as she blogs about her senior xc season. Sandreuter was the Class B state runner-up last fall, and is the top returner in 2013. See what it takes to be one of the top distance runners in New England & the Nation

 

Hello fellow athletes, alumni and Maine Track/XC fans,

After taking some down time to rest over Christmas, Iʼm glad to be finally starting some good, solid training for indoor. It feels pretty weird that thereʼs only one meet left until WMCʼs, especially with all the crazy weather thatʼs been happening, but thatʼs just how it goes when you choose running as your winter sport in Maine I guess ;)

While settling back into regular races and practices, I started thinking it was time to write another blog. Though I always enjoy sharing my thoughts and experiences with those who read Milesplit, I hadnʼt been able to think of something I really wanted to write about recently. Unfortunately, a tragic event that occurred late last week helped me decide what I feel I most need to put out there right now. The heartbreaking news that compelled me to write this was the suicide of 19-year-old Madison Holleran, a freshman track star at Penn State.

I never knew Madison, and most likely, neither did any of you who are reading this. But what we all do know are the pressures of being student-athletes. Most every one of us can relate to the stress and anxiety that often comes along with a constant pursuit of excellence in academics and athletics. Itʼs so painful to hear that this all spiraled out of control for Madison, as it has for many others before her.

Competitive running might seem like a self-centered sport at times, considering the amount of time we invest in bettering our own performances week after week. But it doesnʼt have to be. As special and satisfying as they are, we as runners can accomplish so much more than high scores and PRs as we pursue our athletic endeavors, by recognizing people every day who we can share our time and talents with. Never underestimate the power of a smile for the girl or guy who seems a little quiet on your team or taking time to truly listen and offer encouragement when you talk to fellow athletes -- however small, your words and actions could be the light that dispels some of the darkness you might never know theyʼre dealing with.

So every time you lace up your shoes, especially when it seems like a chore and you wonder why you even bother to train each day, remember those who do not have the chance that you have. Run for them and run for hope that we can make a difference as we chase our goals and dreams each day. Run with purpose, be the legs for those who have none, so their spirits may live on and inspire the world. May each step we take move us closer to a brighter tomorrow, in which we all can find joy and happiness in what we do, spreading that passion as widely as possible.

This week in particular, run for Madison, keeping her in your thoughts and prayers, mile after mile.