Marathon
Strides Against MS
Marathon Man - Stewart Wong
Where did you run this year?
I ran the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront marathon.The course runs primarily along Toronto’s lakeshore and is very flat – perfect for an attempt at a personal best.
I actually ran the race in 2003 before and many of my training routes cover parts of the course. As a result, I’m very familiar with the terrain. One of the most spectacular views on the course comes when you run on the Leslie Street Spit. From here you can see Toronto’s amazing skyline from an angle that you can’t normally see.
Overall, I was very impressed with the organization of the marathon. Everything from the race expo to the on-course experience was first-rate. I’d recommend the race to anyone. They also have half-marathon and 5km routes.
What was the biggest challenge in preparing for the marathon?
The biggest challenge was time management. The balance of friends, family, work and training was a constant juggling act. I even took some half-days off work so I could do my some of my long runs (30km or 32km) that can last more than 3 hours. I did this because the weekends are important for me to spend time with my family and friends. I also have an 18 month old little girl who keeps me on my toes. I’m happy to say that she’s been on a few runs with daddy in the running stroller!
What was your most memorable marathon moment?
This is a tough question. Two big ones are seeing family and friends on the course and running together with Kim, my training partner, for most of the marathon. In terms of an emotional moment there is one that sticks out: At about 37km or 38km, I was mentally and physically fatigued. I’ve been running for more than 3.5 hours to this point and it was getting very, very tough to focus. The exasperation must have been visible because one man yelled out at me, “Come on Stewart, you can do it!!” (Fortunately, each runner’s first name is printed on their race bib so people can do things like this!). This complete stranger made me dig deeper and gave me a much-needed boost in the final stages of the race.
What is the link between running and fundraising for the MS Society?
I can actually trace my running roots to the MS Society: when I first joined the MS Society as an employee, some of my new colleagues wanted to train for a half-marathon and I was convinced to join them. I ran a half marathon that year and raised $515 for the cause. I’m now in my sixth fundraising campaign and this year I’ve raised more than $7000. I’d like to thank all of the generous donors who’ve supported me in my desire to run for the MS cause. The long runs and tough training sessions are easier when you know you’ve got so much support.
What advice would you give to a new Strider?
I would say to take things one step at a time and to enjoy the journey. I started out running no more than half an hour at a time but with every run and every race, I got a little better. I’ve also had my share of setbacks in terms of injury but I’ve always kept the big picture in mind: that I want to be a runner for the long haul.
As well, I would say be as passionate about your fundraising as you are about your running. This will shine through and you may surprise yourself with how much you can raise for this important cause.
Any last words of wisdom?
Running can add years to your life as well as life to your years. So, I encourage anyone interested in running to join Marathon Strides, raise money for the cause and enjoy every step along the way. Your running and fundraising efforts might just help us end MS!
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