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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Admiration for calves like bowling balls

Calves like Bowling Balls...a sketch
I am always equipped to sketch wherever I go.....it helps to pass time and, most importantly, it helps me to learn about life. Most of the elite runners at any race have similar body types....compact, slim with no body fat and a kind of "lightness". Heaviness just doesn't go as fast. The George Washington Parkway race was a veritable smorgasbord of body types: old ladies pacing a fast walk, overweight people with their trainers urging them on, kids of all ages, and parents pushing strollers while running. These folks are an inspiration to all. They don't fit the mold, yet that doesn't hold them back. Wow....profound. After the race, I was lucky to see an unlikely runner stretching his legs as he leaned against a railing. His shoulders were oh-so-broad and his calves were the size of bowling balls. He was almost as wide as he was tall. During those brief moments, I loved this man and I loved his effort.