People from all over Chicago ran a 13.1-mile marathon together on June 4. The marathon, hosted by Bank of America, helped people see different areas of Chicago. This run came across the community of North Lawndale on miles 9 and 10. Many residents came out to support the runners along their journey. Some brought out snacks and others sprayed water for the runners to run through. However, throughout it all there was a deep spirit of togetherness.
The runners all experienced this marathon on a hot summer day while trying to run several miles. There was a great diversity of runners. There were old, young, Black, white, fit, and plus-sized runners all running together. Unlike many places in the world, it seems the trials and tribulations faced during a marathon have created a safe space for anyone to participate. It seems that in their shared struggle; they have found what it means to run.
Spirit of Togetherness
The spirit of togetherness was strong within the runners. “The people are nice and the community is beautiful,” according to one runner. Marathons aren’t easy, especially a 13.1-mile one. While it was only a half marathon, running for any period can be very difficult. This is why the spirit of togetherness is so important. Helping the other runners feel welcome and not like they don’t belong is great. Every runner was there that day to do one thing; they came to run.
Diversity
As was mentioned earlier, there were people from all walks of life present in the race. There were women in their 50s and young men in their 20s. There were many different body types represented, and there were many skin tones present as well. For a moment, the streets of Chicago became a melting pot of culture, experience, and sweat. What this means is that while yes, fit people were present, there was enough space for those who are plus-size.
Plus size Runners
That is important because plus-size representation in spaces like this allows for more plus-sized people to be more comfortable living their lives without fear of being marginalized for their body type. “The Running Community should be a safe space. A space for all genders, races, shapes, sizes, ages, and backgrounds. The running community is where we can all come together and share our passion for running,” according to Marathon Sports.
Alongside plus-size runners, there were participants that were well into their 40s and 50s. This is a crucial age to make sure that one is getting exercise because the human body starts to have a bit of wear and tear at this age. Injuries take longer to heal, and one’s organs aren’t as strong as they used to be.
With this in mind, it is great that people within this population and older are participating in marathons. Even if it is just a half marathon, quality exercise at that age can be a lifesaver. “Voluntary exercise is the single best thing one can do to slow the cognitive decline that accompanies normal aging,” says Linden, according to John Hopkins Medicine.
The Meaning of Marathon
Finally, there was a consistent theme among interviews from the runners. There was a common sentiment that running allows for the voices in their mind to quiet. Along with this, even as they ran in the blazing heat, many said they felt calm and even focused. For many, running is a way of life.
It seems that many within the great crowd of runners have found meaning within their running. They sweat and tire themselves out all for this feeling of bliss during their runs. The happiness and joy that these people experience is something that can only be found through hard work and dedication. May they continue to run to their heart’s content.
Written by Kenneth Mazerat
Sources
HopkinsMedicine: The Truth Behind ‘Runner’s High’ and Other Mental Benefits of Running by David J. Linden, Ph.D.
Marathon sports: Increasing diversity and inclusivity in running by Dan Darcy
All Images Courtesy of The News School
