Dan Snow says: On this day, 24th July, in 1908, the first Olympic marathon was won by Italian Dorando Pietri, running from Windsor Castle through Slough, Harrow and Wembley to the White City – ‘26 miles plus 385 yards on the track’ – an arbitrary length that subsequently became standard.
An exhausted Pietri collapsed and had to be helped up before reaching the finishing line first – so he was disqualified. Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, wrote in The Daily Mail, ‘The Italian’s great performance can never be effaced from the record of sport, be the decision of the judges what it may.’
‘Life’s not a sprint it’s a marathon…’
Last night Richard told me about his grandson Ethan. Fifteen-year-old Ethan recently completed a week’s work experience at a local garden centre. The delighted manager gave Ethan £50 for his week’s ‘work’, invited him back to help during school holidays, offered him an official weekend job when he’s sixteen, and an apprenticeship when he leaves school.
A week-long sprint could become a lifetime marathon.
Last night’s local news included ninety-one-year-old Ron Nash receiving the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award at Peterborough City Hospital. His twenty-six years of dedicated service are recognised on Facebook:
‘Ron’s impact is not defined by one moment, but by the countless acts of kindness and support he provides every day. Even when facing personal challenges, he continues to volunteer with pride, dedication and an unwavering commitment to helping others.’
Some marathon!
This morning reading…
‘…but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.’
Musing…
…Perhaps this isn’t marathon running but a new form of triathlon – flying, running, walking…
…Whether we’re flying through life with exhilaration, running with confidence or walking with determination we need the long-term commitment of Dorando, Ethan and Graham
…I’m seeking renewed strength from the God who gives me hope in today’s part of my marathon.
malcolmsmusings.org 