Front Porch Chat>
The Race
17 Oct 2007

As some of you know, I've been a competitive runner for many years. With our move, I have to admit that my practice schedule has been erratic. Even so, a week after I came to Asheville, I qualified in the regional 100m and 200m sprints. That allowed me to compete at the state NCSG Finals that were held in Raleigh in September.

One of my challenges was that there was no track nearby, so I trained every morning at 7 a.m. around a nearby lake. A week before the state competition, I sneaked onto the track of the University of North Carolina at Asheville; my 100m time was good; I couldn't check my 200m time.

The day of the event was hot, and I wasn't feeling full strength; but I felt good enough to win. My first race was the 100m. I bolted fast out of the blocks and streaked down the track, neck and neck with the runner in the lane next to mine. Usually, I kick it up in the end, and that's when I win the race. This time, when I tried it, I didn't have the pop  in my legs; the runner next to me did.

The 200m was much of the same. I bolted fast and was in the lead until the last 20 meters. Once more, I didn't have the pop in my legs. I ended up fourth in the 100m and third in the 200m. Next year, I have vowed to win.


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David Pereda is an award-winning author and college writing instructor based in Asheville, N.C., USA. He is the regional director of the Florida Wrtiers Association's Western North Carolina division and founder of the Asheville Writing Enthusiasts (AWE). Pereda also is a member of MENSA, an accomplished international equestrian competitor and track athlete. Pereda has won numerous awards for his writing, which has been praied for its intriguing plots and sharp dialogue. Agents, publishers and movie producers are invited to contact: davidpereda@aol.com.. Copyright 2006 David Pereda. All rights reserved.