THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE

Katishia Cosley Trigg

I am by no means an athlete. The closest I’ve ever been to athletic was my days as a high school cheerleader and even that is questioned by many as to whether or not it’s a true sport! So, a year ago, I set out in search of something to help motivate me to be more active. I’ve never loved running, but it has always helped me shed unwanted pounds.

Last January I ran my first-ever 5K. Crossing that finish line gave me such a feeling of accomplishment, I immediately signed up for another. Once three miles became too easy, I challenged myself to a 10K. Finishing those six miles, made me feel like I could do anything! That’s when I set out to accomplish the ultimate challenge- running a marathon.

The training schedule was rigorous. For about eight months I ran at least five days a week. For the first couple of months I trained with a running group to help get me on my way, but ended up doing most of the training on my own. I started out jogging three miles, gradually increasing the number every week until I was strong enough to endure 22 miles.

The week leading up to race day, I was quite nervous, wondering if I was prepared to finish the full 26 miles. My stomach was still in knots the day of the race, but I had to remain positive, believing in myself that I could do it. The weather turned out to be much hotter than predicted, reaching the mid-70’s, but I still managed to run non-stop for 20 miles. That’s when I hit, what runner’s call “the wall.” I thought, what in the world made me think I could run a marathon. I started walking. As quickly as the negative thoughts entered my mind, I forced myself to shut them out; realizing that it would only slow me down. My legs felt like lead; my feet were aching; every single step sent stings of pain through my body, but I couldn’t quit. I dug deep, and started jogging again, much slower, but still moving. Next thing I knew, I only had a mile and a half to go. I was almost there! My husband met me a mile 25 giving me that last bit of motivation I needed to finish strong.

It took me five hours and 21 minutes, but I did it! Me, the non-athlete- ran a marathon! I’ve always been told, ‘you can do whatever you put your mind to’ and ‘if you believe it you can achieve it.’ Powerful words that I’ve always tried to live by life by. Words that continue to ring true to this day. Running the marathon leaves me with no doubt that no matter what you’re faced with, no matter your circumstances – if you stay positive and believe with your heart, you can achieve your goals. You truly hold the keys to your own destiny. You may even surprise yourself and do something you never thought in your wildest dreams you could ever do.

I can’t take credit for accomplishing this challenge alone. I had dozens of friends and family cheering me on. Their support and encouragement not only helped me cross the finish line, but also created an opportunity to give back to Team First and Goal. Many of them contributed a dollar or more for every mile I completed. Making us winners all the way around.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

We would like to thank Katishia for her effort and here time for a making a difference in the lives of today's youth. We truly appreciate all of the sponsors that help support Katishia and their donations to help support First and Goal, Inc. programs.

Tyrone Smith

President

First and Goal, Inc.