Thomas Brock

It has always been a firm belief of mine that everyone needs that one hobby that they can always turn to. For me, that hobby would be running. From the very first time I laced up my shoes for my first race on the playground in elementary school, I have been in love with running. The sheer thrill I get from a run is comparable to no other joy I have experienced, whether it be from a 10-minute run or a 10-mile run!

As I ran more and more in my elementary school years, although it made me happy, I began questioning why I even ran anymore. It felt like it needed to have more purpose in my life. It wasn’t until I began middle school that my love for running found a new avenue for expression—the cross-country and track teams. Joining the team not only allowed me to hone my physical capabilities to a level I thought impossible but also introduced me to like-minded people who shared my passion for the sport.

After two years of arduous training, I had finally made it to the high school cross-country and track teams, starting as a varsity runner. In high school, the stakes were higher, but that only made my gambler's spirit excited beyond belief. During my four years in high school, I received many personal awards, but the achievement I am most proud of is winning the region championship with my team three years in a row.

Fast forward to today. Even now, as I start college, running gives me a chance to reset when the demands of classes become overwhelming. With that being said, as I continue to lace up my shoes, I carry with me the lesson learned and the unstoppable drive that running has instilled in me.