I’ve been meaning to write this for a while.  Being a relatively new runner, having started consistently running in 2008, I find myself out on the trail several times per week.  In 2010 I ditched the iPod as it wasn’t allowed in most competitive efforts I was doing. So that left me alone to my thoughts and the experience.  I truly like it.  However, there’s one thing that consistently irks the sh!t out of me. If I take the time to wave or nod, reciprocate. Especially if you’ve seen the effort been made by me (or anyone else for that matter). Running (and cycling), unless you’re going for the Olympic Trials, is a very very social sport. We pull for each other, help others when they need pep-me-ups and even, unfortunately, in cases of emergency.  So, say hello back and don’t be a douchebag. It’s highly likely it’s gonna be me running/riding by when ur injured, have a flat, stung by a bee, whatever.  A 10th of a second of politeness will not only go a long way for when YOU need it, but it will spread the joy of the sport and brighten someone else’s day.  If you’re on a personal best and crushing those sub 6:00s and looking like you’re gonna explode, then, sure, I can see that. But the stern asshole stare when you look out of the corner of your eye as I wave and pass is simply inexcusable. You get out of this sport what you put in, and, this is something that you SHOULD put in.

Love, Jason.