Saint John Women's Trail Running. A statement that means a whole lot more than just an event, or a weekly run. Women only... not because we don't love running with the men, and being in community with them. But, because there is a deeper sisterhood that is ready to form. I wanted to release a blog with my "why" behind saying yes to heading up the women's only trail running group that starts this week. For those attending, I thought it would help you get to know your guide a little more.
I have always had a passion for people, and specifically connecting people together in a community. I am that friend that will be introducing one friend to the other so we can all be in connection together. I believe there is power in authentic connection, friendship, and relationship. I am even tearing up right now thinking about it. But, to take that a step further, being out in the trail, suffering together, brings a level of connection that you can't explain without experiencing it. When out on the trail, you get to witness each other hit goals, hit walls, suffer, and make it out on the other side. There is nothing more humbling than suffering on a trail together. Those moments make for some pretty crazy awesome friendships that will carry on. For instance, the leader of Saint John Trail Running (the main group), Mark, has been on the trails with me since my first trail run. He has seen me struggle, and also thrive, through my first 6-8 months of trail running. The connection and bond that he and I have on the trail now is hard to even explain. I can say that for many people who are in my trail running crew. We get each other.
My "yes" to this women's group has more of a significant meaning than most might realize. In the past, I have struggled significantly with comparing myself to other women, and specifically women athletes. Honestly, I had such a hard time with seeing another women kill it on trail, and feel genuinely happy for them without comparing myself. I believe that being truly confident in yourself means that you can celebrate others in their wins, without feeling like you don't measure up in the process. For a long time, I could not do that. But, I have done the work to correct my thinking, and I have fallen in love with watching people hit goals. (Please share those wins with me. I really want to hear about them) Some days, I don't feel my best, and I can't hit the same level of excellence that others can, and that is fine. Celebrating while others succeed is a key part of the journey. I want to create that space that I wish I had when I started my training.
What do I want for this group? I want the women's only trail running group to be a safe place for us to be able to cheer each other on, and to experience the process together. I know we all have our insecurities, and internal battles. But, I want this group of women to be a supportive outlet for women around Saint John to feel like they can be themselves as they sort through those battles. Running is hard, but I know we have some strong ass ladies in this area that are ready to crush some goals. I am just happy, and HONOURED, that I get to witness that, and be a part of your journey.
See you on the trails. :)
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