The “Recounter”
re•count•er [ri'kountǝr]
noun
Meeting a fellow Urban Warrior on a long run and then seeing that same individual at another point on your route signifying that they are on a long run too.
This has to be one of my favorite things to happen when I’m running. I’ve now grown accustomed to flashing the “Runner’s Gang Sign” to every runner I meet – even if it means running backward to catch their attention. It’s a movement people!!! “Just Do It!”
As I was saying…I’m trying to be more social when running. We’re a community and we need to stick together. What makes this a special moment is when you get to see that same runner again. They remember you. Whether it’s because of the “Runner’s Gang Sign” or my Lasse Viren appearance (no, I’m not going to post a photo of me), they remember you.
They are not just another once a week runner, they’re on a long scheduled run like you. The fact you met them at mile two and again at eight puts it all into perspective. There’s a camaraderie there as if to say “RMFR you’re doing great!!!” It’s this kind of unexpected support that makes us runners. We understand each others dedication and psychotic AM runs. We know how it feels like pushing up 25% grades and screaming down the same decline. So next time your pounding the pavement or trails, hail your kinsmen because you never know when you’ll meet them next.
Tags: Just Do It, Lasse Viren, Recounter, RMFR, Runner's Gang Sign, Urban Warrior
June 18th, 2009 at 10:56 am
When the runner you meet twice has a higher pace then you, it breaks one of my major justifications for being a slow runner. Typically, I just think – man they must have just started. But when you meet someone at mile 1 and mile 8 and they are still kicking your butt, that doesn’t work at all!
June 18th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Ha. Point taken. I’m a “slow” runner. I’m happy if I can hold on to mid 9 minute miles. I just enjoy knowing that another runner is “going long” instead of someone that’s just out for a jaunt.