Run Strong, Ryan

The Mens Olympic Marathon in Beijing is fast approaching. In little over a day Ryan Hall, arguably one of the most talented athletes this particular field has seen in many years, will be representing the US in the final event. Now, I'm sure there are those who will agree the American’s haven’t exactly led the world in competitive distance running in recent years. Though I'll give Meb Keflezighi credit for taking home the silver in 2004, our showing hasn't been very strong since Frank Shorter won the event in 1972. However, Ryan could change all of that if all goes well. Honestly, he may have already changed it, but just maybe the average joe will finally take notice.

One of the most unique characteristics about Ryan, obviously other than his stunning running ability, is his outspoken faith in Jesus Christ and about how his faith is why he runs. He places his faith above everything else he has accomplished in his life. Ryan was recently featured on the cover of the September 2008 Runner's World magazine and talked about his "run for glory" in the marathon in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing in the article The Power And the Glory. It's a good read, if you haven't already seen it.

Perhaps the most curious piece of the story is a picture of Ryan with a Halloween pumpkin he had carved when he was only a teen. The pumpkin had the Olympic rings carved into it, and above them the date...2008. That boyhood dream will obviously come true this weekend. And whether he wins a medal in Beijing or not, I feel God will continue to work in and through this young man's life. And that's just as exciting as watching the race on Sunday.

Run strong, Ryan.