Across the Alps 2012 or maybe later...

So that's it, my life can move on: The Cro-Magnon Extreme Race for 2013 and 2014 is called off, because the Mercantour Park Management has not allowed the passage of the race. I have already said goodbye to my dream. As a matter of fact this was surprisingly easy, as my plans would have collided with my parental duties and expectations, which have changed my outlook on the whole thing. Will I say goodbye to running alltogether? No, but yesterday I ran without a watch, without a training plan and it felt nice. I'll probably keep on jogging twice or thrice a week leisurely and I feel relieved that I don't have to go through this bone-crushing madness while focussing on raising my child.

What do I learn from this? I had a lot of fun running in 2011 and finishing the Neadertrail 25th will probably be the sportive feat of my life. Yet, my priorities have changed in 2012 and I now need more time for family life and living rather than the pursuit of a slightly obsessive singular dream. Also, my knees and my bones do feel older this year, there is no going around that.

To those who made pledges - please do continue to pursue your dreams and do consider changing them when they no longer fit into your life. The sense of loss one may feel is neighbouring a new beginning.