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DREAM BIG, RUNNING WITH FAMILY
by Amby Burfoot
November Role Model -Amby Burfoot
Photo: Carol Goodrow, Mystic Places Marathon, Kids' Fun Runs, October 2001
 Amby at the Olympics, by Autumn, age 6While Amby was never in the Olympics, he has attended, as official Runner's World press, many times, providing his readers with the latest news. Here is his story. I had always dreamed of running with my children, but it didn't happen when they were young. As kids and developing athletes, they were more interested in soccer, tennis, swimming, and other activities that they considered fun. By the time they entered college, however, their attitudes changed. Suddenly, they realized that running was a great way to stay in shape, and an equally nice way to spend a little time with Dear Old Dad. Now, whenever we get together (Dan is 24, Laura 20), we go out for an easy 3-mile run and the best thing is: they usually mention it before I do! I don't have to push them. They're eager for the workout and conversation time. I suppose I would have liked having several running stars in the family when Dan and Laura were young, but I'm even more excited that they enjoy running now and expect to make it part of a lifetime fitness program. They saw me go out running almost every day when they were little, and I believe they appreciate what running has given me--the good health, the energy, the optimism--and want to have the same things in their adult lives. The lesson here? Set a good, happy example and your children will follow; maybe not necessarily when they're 6 or 16, but eventually they'll follow. And that's the important thing. BIO: Amby Burfoot has been a lifelong runner who now combines his knowledge and love of running with his writing and editing skills. He is the executive editor of Runner's World magazine. Amby won the Boston Marathon in 1968 and won the Manchester Road Race 9 times. You can still find Amby at the Manchester Road Race each Thanksgiving Day. KidsRunning.Com considers Amby Burfoot to be the founding father of this kids' Web site, for it was through his initial support that KidsRunning.Com came to be. You can find out more about Amby by reading The RUNNER'S Guide to the MEANING of Life. This book and many other books by Amby can be purchased at the ambyburfoot.com. |