Dear Running: A letter From Ally Brunton

Dear Running,

The first day of high school cross country practice freshman year I got lost in Warwick County Park when I made the wrong turn. My 20-minute run felt like an hour, and I began to doubt my decision to join the cross country team. I had no idea of the life-changing role that you would play in my life.

You gave me the best high school coach and teammates I could have asked for. Thank you for giving me a coach who showed me how to push myself and be brave while loving the journey. These wonderful people showed me the joy in chasing after my goals. They showed me that with hard work comes success. They showed me that the journey will be rough at times, but with perseverance, I can do anything I set my mind to.

You tested my strength by throwing some significant obstacles in my way during my freshman year at Pitt. You were the cause of many struggles that I experienced that year. However, you gave me wise, inspiring teammates who gave me hope. This hope allowed me to not give up and continue chasing my dreams, no matter how hard it was. My teammates were my heroes, and by looking up to them and following in their footsteps, I stayed afloat and eventually found success. The strength I used during this tough time is something I will use in any aspect of my life, for the rest of my life. Thank you for that.

My relationship with you taught me patience and balance. I learned how to be slow to anger and not give up on myself. I learned how to pick myself up when I failed and try again. I learned that I can love you all the time without thinking about you all the time. I learned that by spending time and effort in other aspects of my life, my relationship with you will strengthen. By being the best version of me, I will become more successful with you.

As I look back on these last five years, you have taught me a simple, yet meaningful life lesson: try your best in everything you do. People have asked me how I've survived college athletics or how I don't get too overwhelmed with running. I always think back to this statement, and I am very thankful to have a coach and parents who have instilled this in me. The most I can ask of myself is the best that I can do. There is no reason to become overwhelmed about the "what-ifs" or uncertainties of life. I am simply going to be the best version of myself and try my best, and whatever that results in is enough for me.

Thank you, running, for showing me who I am. Thank you for the tough times and the happy times. Thank you for giving me confidence in myself and all that I put my effort in. Thank you for allowing me to represent the University of Pittsburgh alongside my best friends. Thank you for all the wonderful people you have put in my life. I don't know where I would be without my teammates and coaches. I know you will be in my life for a long, long time.

With much love,
Ally Brunton

Dear Running: A letter From Ally Brunton

Players Mentioned

Ally Brunton

Related Videos