Determination and Hard Work

Determination and hard work is more essential to success than natural ability. I know this to be true by personal experience. I have seen this to be true in the life of my son, David. From the time he could toddle, David has been a runner. In fact, his first Portland Marathon "Fun Run" was in a stroller, pushed along by his mother who had her eye on David's older sisters who were running the race. David continued his running career at Glencoe Elementary School where he participated in "Run for the Arts" and Portland Parks and Recreation sponsored runs.

David stepped up his running a notch or two at Mt. Tabor Middle School where he was active in a cross country program. That's when he first joined a Hood to Coast Team and ran the 192 miles from Mt. Hood to the Oregon Coast with his older brother, John, his dad (me) and 9 other runners.

David was always a strong runner, but the competition got more serious when he entered Central Catholic Highschool and joined a group of elite runners coached by Dave Frank and marathon legend Alberto Salazar. Running was the primary activity of David's highschool career. Studies took a close second. David ran, trained, took ice baths, got injured, ran on a water submerged treadmill, got better, ran and raced again and again.

David was a strong runner, but never a serious contender. That changed in his senior year when his developing body finally caught up with his heartfelt determination to suceed. Spring Track 2007 saw David running strong and picking up a several second place positions in the 3,000. Then his day came at the Aloha Invitational when David set a personal record and won the 3,000 meter race. I'll never forget the scene that followed as David's team mates showered him with congratulations and bear hugs. He had done it. He had finally won a big race. With an obvious sense of satisfaction he went over and hugged his mother.

In order to particiapte in the High School State Meet David had to place first or second in the District meet. He had tough competition from other runners, but David ran strong and finished second. On to State!

The State High School Track Meet was held at Hayward Field in the runner's Mecca, Eugene, Oregon. David was excited at the thought of racing on the track that where legendary runners like "Pre" had thrilled spectators with his victories.

The big day came for David's 3,000 at the State Meet. David ran a smart race. He stuck with the lead pack through 6 circuits around the track and with 600 meters to go took the lead. "David Laney takes the lead," came the announcement over the loud speakers. David pushed hard and when he crossed the line he had finished 5th in State with a PR of 8:55, 8 seconds off his previous record.

What did it take for David to reach this pinnicle of his running career? It took lots of determination and hard work. I know these character traits will serve him well in working towards future goals in the years to come.

Congratualtions David Laney on your personal accomplishments! With prayer, determination and hard work, we know there are more to come! And "Yes," David. We are still having fun!