Every runner should have a good coach. Someone to motivate you, get you out bed in the morning, share their passion for the sport of running. It makes a difference.
My coach, well he kind of marches to the beat of his own drum. Don’t get me wrong, he lives to run. He’s beside himself until we’re out the door in the morning. Pacing and panting, one eye on me, one eye on the door, you know just to make sure I don’t leave without him.
The one who gets me out of bed in the morning, who makes it his life work to ensure that we go for a run, is my dog Porter. Porter is a Black Lab Blue Heeler mix and was born to run.
To some degree, he is like having a coach. He’s disciplined and knows the routine. If the morning routine gets shaken up, he’s bummed. And don’t even think about trying to sneak out the door without him. Once he sets eyes on the running shoes, he knows what’s up. And barks like a madman should I try to go without him.
Why would I go without him? Well, I love my dog, but sometimes it nice to get out and run without a leash in my hand, without having to stop to pick up poo or wait for him to pee. This rarely happens, mainly because I am a sucker for the doggie guilt trip he lays on me when I try to slide out the door without him. But when it does, I’m the one that runs like I’m off the leash.
Nevertheless, Porter is a good running partner. If anyone out there is thinking of getting a dog to run with, I recommend it. They are great for instilling discipline and of course loyal companions. Coach may have been a bit strong, but you’ll always have someone to run with.
Patrick Hughes is on Twitter. Follow him at @phughespdx
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