Why am I training for these races?

My brother-in-law (my sister's husband), Paul, died at age 41 of a rare blood disease called Amyloidosis. He and my sister, Amy, had just welcomed their second child into the world a few months before Paul was diagnosed with this cruel disease. My sister blogged throughout his illness and continues to blog about her trials and triumphs as a young widow raising two sons. You can read their story here.

While raising her kids and grieving the loss of her husband, my sister decided to honor Paul and fight Amyloidosis by forming a team to participate in the New York City Triathlon. Each member of the team, which is affectionately known as Paul's Posse, was asked to raise money to be given to the Amyloidosis Foundation. In their inauguaral year, Paul's Posse raised over $40,000 to fight this disease.

At the time of my sister's team recruitment, I was still out of shape. I knew that I would never be able to swim, bike, and run the distances required by the NYCTri. So, I volunteered to work with my parents and cousin to host the Paul's Posse Pasta Carb Loading Party the night prior to the event. Furthermore, I volunteered to take care of my nephews while Amy participated in the triathlon.

While watching the inspiring athletes of Paul's Posse and the rest of the NYCTri, something got me. I was so inspiried by the spirit that I saw on the faces of every athlete. So, I committed that weekend to join Paul's Posse and compete in the NYC Tri in 2011. It is August 7. Can't wait.

During my early preparation for the NYCtri, I really began to enjoy running. I have competed in several chartiy races. One day, I received an e-mail from a running club that talked about the opening of registration for the Pittsburgh Marathon. So, I called my sister and we decided to sign up. So, on May 15...she and I will attempt 26.2 miles.

Ok....so there is the background. Now, the real stories will begin to be told on this blog. My long run for this weekend is actually a short-long run (8 miles). Next weekend, though, I have to do 20 miles. Gulp....