By: Brian Chambers

I have sat down to write this at least a dozen times; each time the words escape me. Superlatives like fantastic, amazing, spectacular all fall far short of truly describing my encounters with the Run2Revive team and the whole Rim2Rim experience. Everyone at Run2Revive is fantastic, amazing, spectacular. Their knowledge and expertise are only exceeded by their commitment and their kindness.

I had never been to the Grand Canyon before – it does not disappoint. Breathtaking, awe-inspiring beauty surrounds you from the moment you step up to the rim and yet, I couldn’t help but feel a bit of trepidation as I tried to envision my trek across the expanse. It is said that every journey begins with one step and that was my belief as I headed down the path.

I thought I was prepared. I really thought I was prepared. I did plenty of miles and hill workouts on a treadmill. I listened to the Run2Revive team with a smidge of skepticism, but I tried to heed their advice and I stocked up on the gear they recommended. I really, really thought I was prepared.

I will run again in 2022, provided I am allowed. I hope to bring my grandson along to run with me – or more accurately run ahead of me. I will train differently. I will find the tallest stadium in northwest Indiana, and I will run the stairs endlessly. When I think I am prepared, when I think I have run enough stairs, I will continue to run more and more stairs. I will not conduct all of my workouts in the cool of the morning, instead I will find some time to train in the heat of the day. I will learn how to fuel my body with energy and electrolytes, and I will pack more Paydays – definitely a lot more Paydays.