There is something about the ritual of the race - putting on the number, lining up, being timed - that brings out the best in us.
Grete WaitzRead
When I came to New York in 1978, I was a full-time school teacher and track runner, and determined to retire from competitive running. But winning the New York City Marathon kept me running for another decade.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Winning the marathon reignited her passion for running, extending her career beyond what she initially planned.
Grete Waitz reflects on how her unexpected victory in the New York City Marathon transformed her perspective on her athletic career. Initially intending to retire from competitive running as she focused on her teaching career, the thrill of winning inspired her to continue and ultimately extend her time in the sport for another ten years, illustrating how achievements can lead to renewed passion and commitment.
Themes
RunningMarathonMotivationPassionCareer
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared at a motivational speaking event for athletes.
More from Grete Waitz
All quotes →For every finish-line tape a runner breaks -- complete with the cheers of the crowd and the clicking of hundreds of cameras -- there are the hours of hard and often lonely work that rarely gets talked about.
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Running gives me a clearer perspective on the world, and it makes me feel special. I've never been a traditional tourist. I've always seen the world by running, and that has allowed me to view things in a different way. Places look different in the early-morning hours, when the streets are deserted.
Grete WaitzRead
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