It was spring, 1999.  Bob had already experienced a pretty terrific life.  Husband, father and successful business leader.  Life was good.

He was on the couch reading the newspaper one morning when he happened across an advertisement for a marathon program at the University of Calgary.  He’d noticed many times from the comfort of his favorite chair in his warm comfy home – people running on the pathway along the Bow River pathway – just outside his window.

His thoughts went to this.  How hard could a marathon be?

Until that moment – Bob had been a 2-pack-a-day smoker and couch potato. He didn’t realize how much the simple decision to join a group and learn how to run – was about to change his life.

Not surprisingly, given his initial fitness level, Bob became injured early on and was forced to modify his training and give up the idea of running the Honolulu Marathon that year.  He had no intention of missing out so he and his wife still joined the group in Hawaii and ‘enjoyed’ the marathon from the sidelines.

A determined kind of fellow doesn’t just pack up his toys and go home.  Not a chance.  Bob dug in and got to work.  He spent the winter getting stronger, more flexible and healthier and returned to run the Honolulu Marathon in 2000.

Bob has since completed 25 marathons including 3 the coveted Boston Marathon – with more on the horizon.  His life has changed and the ripple effect he’s had on others is truly inspiring.  Bob went from “wall flower” that first year – to the catalyst for a weekly “breakfast club” run-group and has recruited others to join the same marathon program that helped guide his own success.  His children and grandchildren now join him in local “fun-runs” as part of family events.  His family, friends (old and new) and his overall health have benefitted in many ways from his decision to give running a try.

I could say that Bob has never looked back – but I’d be lying.  Bob has looked back and regularly smiles at the one simple thought he had so many years ago…”how hard could a marathon be?”.

LiveSplendidly!