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Linda, I met you at the Second Cup on Elgin Street a couple of weeks ago when you were with Cori. Thank you so much for mentioning this website! It is filled with some great stories!! I'm going to start running in addition to the grueling "hill intervals" that Tony Greco puts me through! Keep up the great work. Thanks again! Phil Kane, Ottawa, ON
Linda, what an incredibly inspirational website...Chris was right...thank you so much...I will return to it over and over again during the course of the next 21 weeks as I make this journey to my very first marathon in Honolulu on December 10, 2006. Dominique Laundry, Fredericton, New Brunswick
Interesting I was looking for some answer and you gave them to me Did you see the story of Angelo Talluto? You guys should read it, it's fascinating. Plus, I'm really proud of him because he's me teacher in Gr.4. But now, I'm in Gr.5 on September. Keep up the good work Mr.T!
Thanks for the useful site. Keep up the good work. - John
First Marathon: Finish line... I fell down on my knees and wept
Hi Cam, Thank you for your kind words, and for sending your contribution of a story way back when!! The dream is still to publish the best dozen or so stories, from across Canada, in both languages.....So please keep your stories coming, be a part of a body of work that might one day inspire others to have the courage to do the same. If it was easy, everyone would do it....! Cheers, Linda Wagar
Great to see that your site is still rolling along at a fast clip, Linda. I had met your husband by chance at the chiropractor's office in Bells Corners back in 2003, when you were just getting your website going. After he heard that I had run a marathon, he and I chatted a bit about running, and then about your website in the works. I really enjoyed being among the first to contribute a marathon story to the site. Excellent work! Cam Wilson Ottawa ON
I didn't start running until July, 2003. I weighed 217 pounds and my height is 5'10. Starting running for me felt very difficult because I was so heavy and unconditioned. I started running 4 miles every other day on a treadmill because I was so self conscious of how I looked. During spring of 2004, I broke from my shell. Winter 2003, I lost a total of 67 pounds. Today I weigh 150 pounds. To this day, I don't remember what it was that made me become a runner. I have always thought it was too difficult and never imagined running in a marathon. I met some really nice people from MNDRA (Minnesota Distance Running Association) and began going on long runs with them. During fall 2004, I ran the Twin Cities Marathon finishing it in 3:34. I can't believe how much running the marathon changed my life forever. It will be something I will always look back on as being one of the most positive (but difficult) experiences of my life. The preparation for the marathon was wonderful. There are so many talented runners - so many nice people. Hope to see you on the road sometime! Your fellow runner, Rob Hart
Al: Mississauga is a fairly quick course, but the ending is a narrow out-and-back along some bike paths. Organizers said they would rectify this. Mississauga could be the next big thing in future years. -BK
Merry Christmas to all you runners out there. Remember Running Rooms, Resolution Run on New Years Eve.
Hi everyone, check out our website: http://www.trainingsmartonline.com There are great free articles there! regards, peter 17 Nov 2004
Maritime Marathon On Oct 24, 2004 the running of the first Kennebecasis Challenge Marathon was held. The race started in Hampton NB and wound its way through several communities. Quispamsis, Rothesay and into Saint John NB, ending at the Market Square complex. For the first event there was not a large crowd. Only 78 fellow runners but what a well organized and fun event. I would recommend to any one who wants to run a down home fun event with lots of fall foilage to plan tis one for next year. Check it out on the web site. John Parks, Saint John NB, Nov 2004
Can anyone tell me what the mississauga marathon course is like. I want to pick a course to try and PR on. This one sounds OK but I'd like to hear from someone who has done it. Al
What truly inspirational people you all are!
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Hello, tomorrow is the big day again. The first running of the Kennebecasis Challenge Marathon is on tomorrow. Should be a good run, hilly and challenging. Good luck to all. Run for fun.
Thanks to a reader's suggestion, we have just made it possible for you to submit your comments at the end of the stories. If you were inspired, say so, leave your mark! Cheers, Linda Wagar
Congratulations to John Parks! I have already made my comments regarding the lady from Mississauga who cheated at Boston - her story has been hashed around many running groups I am certain. I would hope that her name has been submitted to the BAA. I found her story a real let down afetr working very hard through Canadian winters and more to qualify - tryed two times as well! Unfortunately, as we all know, there are always people out there who feel that they are somehow better than the others ,and, do not have to follow rules. As "Real Boston Finishers", lets hope this person never sees another Boston finish line in her running career!
You mentioned that you ran in the water before your marathon - I often stick in water running to break up the workouts - I recentlty heard of a man who is entered in the New York Marathon and has become injured. He is giving up! - I encouraged him too take his runs into the water and keep on track. Unfortunately, he was not convinced that he could maintain his level of fitness in the water - and hope to run a marathon at the end. - I read your posting and was wondering what you did. Can you help?
Jill Neufeld
Calgary
Thank you Trish, and I see you crossing that finish line already! Cheers, Linda Wagar 07 Sep 2004 23:00:30 Hi Linda!
WOW! Thank you Chris Fretwell for sharing this very inspirational link with me (us) her fellow JIM Team mates. I am in training for my FIRST marathon in Dublin, Ireland on Oct. 25/04, as a Joints In Motion participant. I have been so inspired reading all the stories that you have all taken the time to share. And, Thank you, John Parks, for your motivational story, as I have injuried my knee and have been doing everything but 'running'(on land) right now, and loved reading your story...seeing how it can be possible to still run a marathon. I just recieved a VERY inspirational book from a good friend that is fitting for all of your (our) stories. It's by Dr. Suess called 'Oh, the places you'll go'. It's an easy read ;) and I am sure you will all find it as inspirational as I have. Thank you all again for sharing! You've made a difference! Trish Duncan Victoria, BC
I ran the Boston in 2003 after training for 3-4years to qualify. I worked very hard as most Marathonors know to reach this goal. I had set the goal to celebrate my 50th birthday. I did not achieve the time I was looking for as I injured my leg during the winter and ran in a swimming pool for 5 weeks. It got me to the finish line and I achieved my goal. I will run it again in 2005 having qualified again with a 3hr and 13min time in 2004. John Parks
I must admit, I was led here by Google. However, I noticed a link to Don Mann, the Datsun Man of Ottawa and was reminded how he gave me my initiation into the automotive world back in '69. I was saddened to here of his recent passing, and sorry I couldn't be there for the celebration of his life. Don Little Parksville, BC
I am proud of all of you .and very proud of my niece Chris Fretwell ,keep up the good work love and god bless all of you . aunt Bernice
June 26,2004 What a great page and so many great stories. So many reasons for each and everyone of you to be proud and Chris you make me extra proud. Mom
Wow, I was just reading all the comments posted..and saw that I posted one last year! "20 May 2003 12:00:44 I look forward to being able to submit my own story....next year! What a wonderful idea! -kiza" AND I DID IT! :) I POSTED ONE! I think when I wrote that last year, I really didn't believe that I would be posting one! Thanks for keeping this site going (to all people that have posted their stories, and to Linda for continuing the website!) cheers, Kiza
This link has been down, and I apologize for the inconvenience this may have caused you. Should you experience difficulties, email us directly, and we can post your comments directly. Editor, Linda Wagar
wow. this is a really great site. keep up the good work!
Hello, I am a marathoner! I take great pride in saying that I am what so few are and have done what so few attempt. I want to thank you for this site, it truly is amazing reading about others who have gone and done what they have set out to do and to relate with them as they so eloquently relive their stories. I found myself remembering the excitment, nervousness, despair, relief and the "thank God I see the finish line" feelings as I read through these stories. I wanted to share with all and any that come across this site what I kept in my mind when I struggled to finish the most gruelling physical task of my life. As I ran and as I trained this is what helped me stay focused, if there is anyone that can benefit from these words please take them and own them for yourself. "When you feel lost and your muscles are sore. When you are tired and your mind can not focus. When your soul hurts and your legs can no longer carry you. Just believe in yourself and your heart will" Peggy Kalinowski legs.kalinowski@shaw.ca
Rome!!!I can see you dream big!! Your nervousness will cross you thru that finish!!! I look forward to reading your story! Stay healthy! Linda Wagar
What a great website. I am currently training for my first marathon to be run in Rome Italy with Team Diabetes. I have lived with insulin dependent diabetes for 35 years and it has been a drean and goal to run a marathon. These stories have helped to keep my inspiration up on those down days. I am nervous but know I will finish. Thanks for the insight and I will contribute whan I return. Mary Helton davidhelton@shaw.ca
Dear Chris: THANK YOU for your comment, and I look forward to reading your story!! Enjoy your training for your upcoming 8th Marathon!!! May your training runs become your muse for publication...! Cheers, Linda Wagar
I was delighted to stumbled onto your website. I had been searching for marathon stories as inspiration for my upcoming 8th marathon in May 2004 in London, Ontario (Forest City Marathon). If time allows, I will submit the story of my 7th (last) marathon. I am looking forward to reading stories from fellow Canadian marathoners. Thank you for hosting and providing such a website for Canadian marathoners everywhere. Chris Frappier Fergus, Ontario
What a great site for inspiration! These great stories represent some of the most courageous people on the planet! Peter Barrett Association of Canadian Ultra Marathoners
Beautiful website and very inspirational to the reader. Nice job. I am not a runner but I appreciate reading such nice material.
Yolande Donnelly Tarot Master, Ottawa
Linda - your strength, conviction, determination and drive are amazing. The impossible dream - isn't. Thanks for being. Cori
Annie - Wonder Woman! You really are. Loved your story. You go, girl. Corinne. Ontario
Linda - you are the best. What a wonderful, inspiring collection of works. It is almost enough to coerce another half - but still recovering from the last one you dragged me through. much love, Cori.
BRAVO LINDA je suis fiere de toi une bonne partie de ma vie tu ma pousser et maintenant tu me donne une autre pousser je suis fiere que tu a quelque chose dans ta vie qui te laisse vivre!!!! gen
Merci Philippe....peut-être un jour Paris....je peux rêver non?? Bonne course, et surtout, bonne santé! Linda Wagar
What an enspirering site! Keep up the good words. Tina Loval Toronto
To Don Mann: Thank you for your kind words, you are still my favourite "Datsun Man", so, don`t you think the Aztek does actually look like a running shoe... Keep doing what you do! Cheers, Linda Wagar
I like the one about Wonder Woman! Erica. Edmonton, AB
Bravo Linda. I wonder if you are considering half-marathon stories too.
To Linda Wagar Your story was inspiring. I wanted to find you and give you an advil. From our time of working together, I knew you were dedicated and hard working, but this story is a clear indication of your commitment and your desire to succeed. I printed your article for my wife to read, and have sent e-mails to our daughter and two daughter in laws, asking that they go into the web site and read your story, and I am proud to say to them that I once worked with this lady. Don Mann
athletics is thing very great
Thank you Amelia, and I am glad the story you read was inspiring!! You are right, you can achieve whatever you set out to do, starts in the mind. Stay in touch. Linda Wagar
hi...i'm a 12-year old girl who has been inspired by one of the stories i have read, it has really touched by heart and shown me i can achieve anything, no matter what situation i'm in. i'm just here to leave my mark and tell u about this. amelia fernandes
Linda: It was great to meet you this morning. The stories are all very inspiring and yours certainly brought back fond memories for me of running the New York City marathon last November which, on balance, was for me a wonderful experience. Philippe Rabot, Ottawa
Just thought I'd say job-well-done! Frank
Thank you so much kiza!!! And I look forward to reading about it too!!! Do check from time to time, and read stories, and hopefully be inspired!!! I need more stories to READ!!! Sincerely, Linda Wagar
I look forward to being able to submit my own story....next year! What a wonderful idea! -kiza
Congratulation on a very organized and professionally done web site. Nice to see you followed your dream. Good luck on your next marathon. John & Theresa
This is a great site! Very inspirational. Katharine Ottawa
Great site, Linda and Carl! And great project! Not being a marathoner (at least not RUNNING marathons), I have to experience them through you vicariously. Best of luck. Further to someone's comment on a sponsor, have you thought of the charity to which you will donate your proceeds. Your charity might be willing to be a sponsor. Allison
Linda, I have chills seeing this and reading about the dreams of others. Thank you for making this something everyone can share whether a marathon is a personal dream or not. Bravo. Susan Allan
Well I just want to say congrat for all of you that are running for a very good cause...it must take alot of oumph to do this and determination, one day i hope that i can do something for other and using my body to show my love and whishes for other for now i will share my love and my best wishes for the runs that you all are going to do in the near future love and straight to all of you! Gen
Congrats Linda! It is truly unbelievable the changes that have occurred in your life since running began to "fuel" you. I remember when you first discussed this endeavor with me & voila you have begun. I will not wish you luck because I know that it will only be accomplished through effort & stamina...both of which you are greatly blessed with. Deborah
I also really like the little runner at the bottom corner -- such great form -- so consistent! B.C.
This is a terrific idea, Linda! I have written up stories in my journal that runners have told me about their marathons, and I am always inspired by them, even if I won't run myself. It is an activity that goes beyond sense at times, but never beyond worth. I applaud anyone who achieves it and anyone who celebrates it like you are doing. Well done! Barbara Carlson
Dear Linda, What a wonderful idea ! sharing your marathon stories. It will be an inspiration to all who will and have run a marathon. good on you and if I can do anything to help Please let me know.. Have you thought about sponsorship of the site? Wendall Hughes
What a wonderful read! Though not a marathon runner, I was exhausted reading your story Linda. I was proud of you then ...and now. You've turned a personal event into a forum where others can share their success stories...Bravo, and good luck Alice...Sudbury Hi Linda, Great idea, great job. May the stories form a marathon. Keep your dreams alive. Laurene Bravo Linda!! Best of luck on your new site. And the dream continues. Your future waterboy.
Welcome to our Guest Book. We hope you'll say hello to other marathoners on the site, offer suggestions and ultimately, submit your stories for publication on the web site and in the book.
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