Noah's Ark Running Philosophies

Not completely original, as I adapted the story for runners; however, the principles are solid.


We are definitely continuing a great journey with the Lord, as He transports us to realms beyond 
our imagination. We are somewhat like Noah and his family as they followed God's instruction to 
build, and then board a great vessel. Here are some Training and Racing Principles for life that 
we can learn from Noah's Ark:

NOAH'S ARK FOR CROSS COUNTRY RUNNERS:

ONE: Don't miss the boat (Be On-Time for all Practice Sessions and busses leaving for Meets).

TWO: Remember that we are all in the same boat (Be committed to your Team).

THREE: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark (Complete your written Racing 
       Strategy Plans and written Season Performance Goals. Inform your teachers of our 
       competition schedule).

FOUR: Stay fit. Always be in top physical condition. (Your coach or teammates may ask you to do something really big).

FIVE: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done (Use every moment 
      of your practice time wisely, regardless of what your peers may be saying).

SIX: Build your future on high ground. (Learn from past failures and defeats; but then leave them 
     behind and FOCUS on the POSITIVE changes to employ in future training and racing).

SEVEN: Travel in pairs (Find running partners to train with on the weekends and teammates to run 
       with you in competitions in order to encourage you to excel).

EIGHT: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs (Develop your 
       individual strengths to maintain your ideal, economical running pace, and remember: Every 
       Member of the team is important).

NINE: When you're stressed, float awhile (Remember to incorporate Active Recovery Days into your 
      weekly schedule, consisting of relaxed running, cycling, or swimming).

TEN: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

ELEVEN: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.
__________________
Nick Vogt
Cross Country & Track Coach
William Jessup University
333 Sunset Blvd.
Rocklin, CA 95765
(916) 577-2368
Web: http://www.jessup.edu
E-mail: nvogt@jessup.edu