NEIGHBORLY

For the most part, runners are pleasant, optimistic, and successful people. They are supportive, willing to lend advice to their colleagues and competitors, and tend to be good, decent human beings. We have a genuine appreciation of nature and our surroundings. We love running in cities, as well as running through the countryside.

Perhaps more than any other year in my running career, 2013 has afforded me the privilege of interacting with runners from all corners of America and the world, through my speaking engagements at races.

In January, I enjoyed Cajun hospitality (and some of the greatest food on the planet) at the Louisiana marathon. A week later, I experienced the international flavor of Miami Marathon. There, I recognized that, no matter what language or culture, running and racing are universal equalizers.

At the Shamrock Marathon, in Virginia Beach, I was proud to be part of a festival that was sponsored by my hometown pride and joy, Yuengling Beer, America's Oldest Brewery. Dick Yuengling, president of the company was my Little League baseball coach. We spent time with his daughter, Jennifer and her family, and enjoyed the hospitality of some fine race organizers.

A week after the Boston Marathon, I traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah, for the Salt Lake City Marathon. There was a sense of solidarity at Salt Lake. We laughed and cried. Those of us who were in Boston on the day of the tragedies exchanged our stories. It was a gratifying, moving experience.

Midwest hospitality greeted me in Minneapolis, Minnesota for the Twin Cities Marathon. Folks were friendly, understated, and warm. We ate at Mickey's diner, ran along the Mississippi River, and thoroughly enjoyed the city of Saint Paul.

The Jersey Shore was hopping with excitement two weeks ago, when I appeared at the Atlantic City Marathon. It was fun being able to run on the iconic Boardwalk.

Finally, once again, the true international flavor of our sport was on display this weekend at the Niagara Falls International Marathon. I spoke at the pasta dinner last evening, and the runners I met were simply tremendous people. Niagara Falls, Ontario is a beautiful place, and it's pretty cool for folks to have run one marathon in two countries.

Our sport has grown, and that is tremendous. Many of the runners I have met at my seminars over the past two years have bought my book, are looking forward to the next one, and continue to stay in touch with me, posting their times, and asking for my advice on various running issues. Needless to say, I am more than happy to offer my assistance whenever I can.

This is, indeed, a very neighborly sport. We assist and console each other. We can be fiercely competitive, but intensely compassionate.

Thanks to all of you who make this the greatest sport on earth.