Determined to Run

This past weekend, my fiancé Tomer crossed the finish line and completed his fifth marathon. Despite the unseasonably hot weather and a few obstructions along the runners' path, Tomer met his goal to complete the race in under four hours.

In the three years that we've been together, Tomer has trained for marathons, triathlons and Iron Man races. I have seen the intense physical effort that training requires. Long and intense runs, swims and bike rides are required multiple times each week. Tomer will sometimes train twice a day. I have seen him swim go for a 3k swim after cycling for several hours.

The physical feats are impressive, but most of Tomer's training is mental. It takes an immense amount of discipline to complete a marathon, triathlon or an Iron Man. Training is often more challenging than the race; motivating for a 7 a.m. bike ride on a Sunday morning, or a 30k run in the rain is tough.

Tomer applies the discipline he exerts when training to all areas of his life. He pushes himself professionally and personally in the same ways that he takes on challenges in sport. Tomer is one of the most resilient people I know-- working around setbacks and focusing on success. This sense of determination has helped him through a competitive MBA program and multiple career switches.

What I admire most about Tomer's athletic prowess is the infectious sense of enthusiasm he has for sport. Tomer has convinced a number of friends to join him in competitions, creates training programs for them and coaches them through the process.

And now, after watching him feel a sense of elation and accomplishment after crossing the marathon finish line, I've also been inspired. The day of Tomer Slaney's most recent marathon was the first day in my training program for a 5k run.

This post is part of the #MovingFutures series on sports for social change.