Bob's Running Story Posted on August 05, 2014
I started running in the mid 1970’s. I ran on the varsity Coral Spring High School Cross Country team in Florida. It was hot and humid, but I loved it. The art of running has changed a lot since those days, and so have I.
I’ve run on and off for many years, until 2006, when I was at a crossroads in my life. Alcoholism was taking over, and I had to make a choice whether to live or to die. I chose to live. Running became my therapist, my best friend, my AA session, and taught me to live healthy and with peace. We all run for hundreds of reasons, but for me it became my life and everything that I wanted to be.
Since 2006, I’ve developed a passion for running that makes me so proud to be part of a sport that transforms all of us into something greater. I’ve run 100+ races since then, and I’ve met some of the most wonderful people in this sport.
I’m proud of so many of my accomplishments, but the one that sticks out the most has to do with coming back from two knee surgeries. I was devastated in 2011 and 2012 to learn that I tore a meniscus in each knee, and would need surgery. But getting back to running took patience, hard work, and a huge desire to be competitive again.
I could list all of the races and goals I’ve achieved over the years, but really the best thing that happened to me was meeting new friends and soaking up the running community. I volunteer my time on the Big River Training team to give back to a wonderful community of athletes a gift that was given to me. I love seeing individuals reach goals that they never thought they could attain, and earn that self worth that we all have in each other. The joy of running, isn’t that what it’s all about.
Lastly, I’ve been able to work part time at Big River Running over the last year to share my knowledge, meet new friends, and hear all the great running stories. The passion at this company runs deep, and I am so proud to be a part of it.
*Bob is a freelance blogger for the More Miles More Smiles team!*
13 Comments
Stroker on On 08/08 at 02:21 PM
Meeting you has been one of the highlights of my time running Bob! Thanks for sharing your story and I’m so excited you joined the Bourbon Chase team again this year! Keep up the PR’s!
Michelle on On 08/07 at 10:07 PM
You are my inspiration. I miss running with you on Sunday mornings.
Bob Alexander on On 08/07 at 09:47 PM
Oh man, the next time I see each of you, you’re all getting a hug from me, even the Mayor. :-)
Seriously, thank you all for your friendship, support and ALWAYS being there for me. You all have no idea how much that means to me.
Meghan M on On 08/07 at 05:30 PM
You are the best! Seriously.
Joe Shea on On 08/07 at 12:03 PM
Bob, Well done. Proud to have you as a friend and running companion!
Michele on On 08/07 at 09:32 AM
Bobby- you inspire so many people! Makes me wanna walk really fast!
Gary on On 08/07 at 07:26 AM
Thank you for sharing your story Bob. You have inspired me to be better and find the joy in running. Here’s to 100+ more races. Smile on!
Kelly on On 08/07 at 06:41 AM
Bob, you truly are an inspiration! Fantastic story! Thanks for sharing!
Kelly Moore on On 08/06 at 09:39 PM
You are an amazing runner Bob! Can’t wait to see what you do next!
David on On 08/06 at 09:26 PM
Bob, it is such a privilege to be able to run with you. You are truly an inspiration! The running community is blessed to have you!
Amy K on On 08/06 at 09:14 PM
Best. Waterboy. Ever! You rock, Bob.
Mayor on On 08/06 at 07:41 PM
The running community is lucky to have you Bob. You are a very kind and selfless guy on top of being a great runner. Keep it up!
Ellie on On 08/06 at 07:25 PM
Great story Bob! And you are a valued member of the running community!