My Running Story: Mark Posey

Inaugural RnR San Antonio Marathon finisher Nov 2008.

How did your running journey begin?

I started running regularly after having my gall bladder out in 1979. I thought that would be the best way to get back in shape.

What motivates you to stay active?

I like to play with my grandkids so I know I need to be in reasonable shape to do that. I also like running for the alone time and the way I feel when I am finished.

What has running taught you about perseverance/commitment/goal setting?

My running goal for a long time has been to qualify for the Boston Marathon. I have never been able to do it, but I’m going to keep trying. After going through cancer treatment for the 2nd time in 2014 the chemo left me severely weakened. Running has been my go to activity to try to regain some semblance of strength and endurance, and to stave off the aging process as long as possible.

Albuquerque Marathon finisher September 1989.

How has the Andiamo challenges motivated you during these past months?

The Andiamo challenges have been fun to complete. I am very fortunate that I have been able to run everyday since before the 1st run streak challenge in March. I haven’t met any one of the other participants in real life but maybe when real races start again I may break out of my long time social isolation bubble to participate and meet the people I only know through these challenges.

I am 67 years old. I ran my first marathon in San Antonio in 1984. I ran marathons in Houston, Austin, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, and San Francisco. I ran the inaugural RnR San Antonio Marathon in 2008 one year after my 1st cancer diagnosis and my last one one year before the 2nd cancer diagnosis, for a total of 15. I used to race at 6 min/mile pace almost for 10 miles but now I’m happy with 13:00 min/mile. It’s all a matter of perspective.

Congrats on your accomplishments, Mark! Thanks for being part of the Andiamo running community! You are truly an inspiration to all of us. Let’s #keepgoing #keeprunning #yocorroeveryday

Mark has completed all of the Andiamo mile challenges since March, logging over 100 miles monthly! You can follow him on Instagram @charliey007