Wesley Botton

By Wesley Botton

Chief sports journalist


Finding novel ways just to keep running

You can get back to running when there’s somewhere to go. Until then, why not take this rare chance to be lazy?


All my life, I’ve been surrounded by people who run.

Many, if not most, will tell you it’s fun.

From fast to slow, and big to small.

Over the years, I’ve witnessed them all.

The thing about runners is they really like to run.

And they tend to be grumpy until their running is done.

In the morning, they must start their day with a jog.

If they miss out for some reason, that day turns into a slog.

Runners will run wherever they are.

They can run closer than close, and further than far.

At the bottom of a hill, you’ll see them race to the summit.

From atop a mountain, watch them charge right back down it.

Trapped on a boat, they’ll run in circles.

It’s loony.

They just keep going, like the guy in that Forrest Gump movie.

It can be super cold.

They’ll run anyway.

The blazing hot sun?

Nothing keeps them away.

There can be thunder and lightning, hail, sleet or snow.

They might take it easy, but still they will go.

If you cover their eyes, they’ll just run into walls.

Or tumble down stairs.

They won’t care if they fall.

They’ll simply pick themselves up and continue running.

Obsessed with the motion, their determination is stunning.

Now locked up at home, while most watch TV, they just keep on running, as if they’re still free.

Proof of their runs are shared eagerly with others. Endless scribbles make it clear, they are indeed real runners.

No partners to train with and no space to run.

They turn alone in circles, and still they’ll tell you around the bend it’s fun.

For those who don’t do it, it may seem a bit dilly.

We might lock them up if they were any more silly.

But running when there’s space can at least be explained.

With reasons aplenty, they sure can’t be blamed.

To run in circles, however, because you’re locked down?

Nobody’s watching.

There’s no medal or crown.

Don’t get me wrong, running is great.

It’s especially useful when you’re going to be late.

All I’m saying, and give me a chance here to save face.

For everything, we must admit there’s a time and a place.

Stay fit and healthy, in body and mind.

And find ways to keep busy, to help pass the time.

It may give you a boost to get through the day, but how much energy do you need when at home you must stay?

Like the kids and that cat with the hat, new games you must find.

Create unique ways to get through the grind.

You can get back to running when there’s somewhere to go.

When your route isn’t restricted to the lawn that you mow.

Until then, why not take this rare chance to be lazy?

Watch tiger people on telly.

Compared even to runners, they’re crazy

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