My final thoughts as the Frederick Steeplechasers President, 2019/2020.
Gosh, the time has gone by so fast. But it always does, doesn’t it? I still remember where I was when I accepted this role and how nervous I was saying, “Yes”. The nerves of being the leader of this club still get me, even holding an online virtual recorded meeting between myself and 8 other people for the nomination process. I can see all of you looking at me, just as you did in the 2020 awards ceremony and banquet when I acknowledged all of our wonderful volunteers. Public speaking has never been my strong suit, so I appreciate you all allowing me to give my presentation without the need of throwing rotten tomatoes in my direction.
These past two years have been a real rollercoaster of a ride. There have been highs of completing my first 50k and running with my son for his first half marathon. Then there are the lows, with a several-months long injury, and then the pandemic with everything grinding to a halt around us. We have so much good to look forward to in the upcoming year, we can hope to visit with our friends and families and begin running with our buddies again. Boy, do I miss running with my Steeplechaser family.
This morning on the radio I heard a song called “Volunteers” by Jefferson Airplane. It had a nice tune to it and I’m not exactly sure what the message is about, but just the word “volunteer” made me think about all of the great people we have in this club and how much they do. The amount of work these volunteers put in is just astounding, and it only became clear to me once I took this leadership role. Anyone who has put even an ounce of effort in supporting this club, I cannot thank you enough for what you have done. There are just too many people to thank individually, but just know that if you have helped with anything for the club at large, you are very much appreciated.
I am leaving the post of FSRC President any day now, but please know that I’m not going anywhere. I love this club, and I love our town of Frederick so there is no chance I could leave any time soon. My roles within the club will surely transfer to other responsibilities and I look forward to what the future holds. So, until we can meet again, as another famous song goes…
“So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, adieu…”
Many happy runnings to all,Joshua Roane