Trophy Hunting

During a recent outing, a very long time friend and I were discussing life, the universe and everything.  A bit of a preface... I feel it has taken me 40+ years to just begin figuring out what life is about, so by no means am I an expert.  But I said, for me, life is all about doing things that you've never done before... seeking out new experiences and getting everything you can from it.

He said I sounded like a trophy hunter.  Trophies, for you non-PlayStation 3 gamers are "achievements" you receive for doing certain things while playing.  Yes, they are virtual trophies, so they aren't tangible nor do they have any inherent value.  Also, the tasks are not along the critical path to completing the game, but more of a fun aside. In summary, they are little pieces of nothing.  So when my trusted old friend accused me of being a trophy hunter, I thought it made me seem a little superficial.

Well for me, my big pursuit is obvious.

In 2009, Boston sold out in late January, at the time it surprised many how quickly.  For 2010, it sold out in November 2009.  And now for 2011, it sold out in 8 hours.  My confidence of running a 3:30 is pretty high, as long as I can stay healthy, but with the accelerating pace of the sellouts, it seems that I may have to do better.

I bumped into a couple of running buddies last week and we had a quick discussion about it.  Beverly thought they should charge more rather than raising the bar.  I don't agree with that.  At $135, it is on par with the a major marathon, but 1/2 the cost of NY.  But I believe that Boston should be "good" runners and not just OK runners with money.

If Boston raises the qualifying times, I don't know whether my best will be good enough.  I do know that come May 1 (VIM) I'll be prepared to give it my all.  I also know, when I'm done, and nothing is left on the table, I'll be proud of what I've done, where I came from, and what I went through.  Sure, it might not be enough, but in the end, I'll be delighted knowing how much I've gained, and the only thing I've lost??? Well,  just a trophy.