THE STRUGGLES OF A RUNNING SEASON by Shizuka Shizuka: Number 218 1. There's the occasional starting block that slips. So always check your block. 2. After you have finished a big race or time trial, check not only your time, but the wind. Then later you won't be surprised that the wind was over the legal limit. 3. You should run your very best in the pre or semi finals, because this will determine your lane in the finals. This can become a big factor in the final outcome. 4. Make sure you know there is a difference between a manual clock and an automatic clock. Simply just ask your coach, therefore there will be no surprise later. 5. Remember, somethings are out of your control; like the wind. Just relax and ENJOY THE RACE. 6. Also, never forget the sleeper, the most dangerous runner in the race. The sleeper is the one person who shows up for the race, that you never ran against. Every big race has one. 7. Never forget running is a constant challenge against oneself to do your best. Never worry about another runner's time or place. JUST DO YOUR BEST, THAT'S ALL YOU CAN DO. 8. One labors for which one loves, and one loves for which one labors. In this case our love is for RUNNING. 9. I am saying, "Listen to your coach and work hard." You and your coach are like a car. You are the engine and he or she is the driver. One without the other can get nowhere, 50/50 partnership. 10. NEVER give up, NEVER abandon your positive attitude, and with this you can never lose, no matter what the results are. Be happy that you were the best you could be and have fun in the race. Carol's Note: I invited Shizuka to write a kid's column for kidsrunning.com. Though I have never met Shizuka in person (she lives in Japan), I get to know her a little more each time she writes to me, for she writes from her heart. Thank you to Shizuka's mother for helping her with this piece. LINK Kids Web from Japan This is a really cute and informational kids' Web site. Make sure to check out "What's Cool in Japan". ...at the track. Privacy Policy of Kids Running