A race is a work of art that people can look at and be affected in as many ways as they're capable of understanding ~ Steve PrefontaineAs educators, we often try to teach our students more than just facts and formulas. Being an avid female runner, there is a certain historical story which holds great meaning to me and teaches a lesson that cannot be graded through any test or quiz. Not only have I found personal inspiration from it, but I also found it has great ties to the classroom.
It wasn't that long ago that women were denied entry into distance running races. Despite records of women having completed marathons in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, prior to 1968 women were not allowed to compete. Many believed that females simply weren't fit for such athletic feats. And so, decade after decade, officials declared that women had no place in the race.
This didn't stop women from running, of course. There's an almost primal drive that compels some humans to move, to push, and to explore. Despite my love for my comfy chair, blankets, and lap dog, I feel that drive. I run to think, to quiet my thinking, to let out stress, to see the world, to appreciate nature, to feel alive. I race myself, I cheer on others, and I love going further than I've ever gone before. I simply can't fathom being told I'm not cut out for the challenge.
