Written by Judy Proteau, President of the Highland City Striders
I’d like to think that I’m somewhat a fiscally responsible adult. You know, like signing up for races that I NEED to be at and only buying the Nike Pegasus sneakers when they go on sale (and happen to be in a cute color.)
Over 10 years ago, when I joined the Highland City Striders, I just had a feeling that the $15 that I spent to join a bunch of fun loving, encouraging, super athletes would be money well spent. I have gotten so much from the club- friends for life, tips and advice and seeing parts of the city and trails that I would never have seen before. Folks that I might never have met have become people I lean on for running help and general life help. I’ve become a better human and a slightly better runner since.
As I close this chapter of serving HCS for three years as Vice President and one as President I have some ideas for YOU on how to maximize your investment in HCS.
-Attend a run that you normally wouldn’t. If you normally don’t run track- try it. It’s fun, really! I used to be allergic to the track but the encouragement and guidance from Steve is priceless. Trails can be tricky to navigate on your own but with a group, it’s an adventure. A 5am run can be great when there are people who will hold you accountable and make the chore fun.
-Be open to new routes. Perhaps there’s a new section of town you haven’t seen or it runs past a cool new coffee shop you haven’t tried yet. Consider that a run you may consider boring or too flat may have been chosen because it’s easy to learn or good for beginner runners.
-Try to be present on your runs and really enjoy the amazing diverse group of people that make up our team. Try to embrace everyone’s different backgrounds- both in running experience and their life.
-Consistency is key. As most coaches will tell you, a consistent running schedule will really help your speed and running economy. We are so fortunate that we have a few awesome people who help coordinate runs on 6 days a week. Try a few different ones to see what really works for your schedule.
-Say yes more often. When someone asks you if you’re going to be at the 6:30pm run and it’s cold and dark out, just say yes. You- your positive vibe- is just what is needed at club activities. You’ll get more from your membership when you trauma bond with a fellow runner about cold New England winters.
The most important tip I have is give back more than you take. Offer to run with a new runner. If you see someone struggling during a run, talk to them- encourage them or just listen to them vent. If you have a special skill like logo design or technology skills give back to the club by offering to take on a task. Develop something new- a new race, a new route or make a new running buddy. Step outside of your comfort zone by running for election or volunteering to head up a special fundraising project or directing a race. Suggest improvements to the club when you see a need and look for things that can be improved or changed. Make that first step of brainstorming ideas on what can be better. Your investment of $15 and your time will yield high happiness dividends over the years.
I will still say that the money I have spent on membership dues is a steal for everything that I have gotten from HCS. It has been my pleasure and true honor to serve you over the last 4 years.
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