By: Zane Thrift
What’s there to say? It’s simple really; I have an incredible passion for running. There is just something about that feeling of running when you don’t even realize you’re running anymore, it’s a feeling I strive for on every run and sometimes I run for longer than I should. My desires run deep and I want everyone to know it, watching half marathons and full marathons was so inspiring and I wanted that sense of accomplishment. I remember realizing that my health wasn’t the best, and I decided to make a huge change in my life and that’s when my life really changed for the better as I picked up running; it’s all I could think about, all I wanted to do was run. There’s a sense of peace, it’s your alone time to prepare or reflect on the day ahead.
One of the best decisions I have made was on a whim as I decided to show up for a social run with a running group called “Pint Striders”. I didn’t really know what to expect, but by the end of the night I was hooked. The group is so welcoming to new people, it’s not just about the run but it’s also the social aspect, the camaraderie, and the wonderful support system that this group provides. What I didn’t know is that it wouldn’t be long before I started to prepare for my very first full marathon, but what I had already done was enthralling and rewarding in its own. Not just for my results, or good times, but the people I have met, the stories that have been shared, the friendships I have made, and the good times that I’ve had.
I didn’t expect much when I started to run; I just thought it was a way to be healthy. I started to run in local races with Run Project just because I thought it would be fun, and it turned into so much more than that. The most important thing is running local, every time you run you’re not just doing something for yourself, but you’re giving back to the community. Every run and every step means something. You’re a part of something so much bigger in that you’re helping to support a local cause that is important to many people and that is really the best feeling. Run Project provides exciting ways to support important charities and give back to our communities, not to mention how organized and fun their events are. As someone who has always enjoyed assisting with great causes, I am always honored to participate in Run Project events.
Outside of running I mostly enjoy spending time with my beautiful wife, Bailey. I also really enjoy DFW Sports, but of all of them I am a very big Dallas Cowboys fan; so on Sundays (Or Monday nights) my time is dedicated to chomping off my fingernails and yelling at the TV. Other than that, I live a pretty simple life and do my best to enjoy every day I have.