For our "Run Hard, Risk Heartbreak" campaign, we asked athletes and community members to share what the concept means to them. Emily Royston is a Heartbreak sponsored collegiate athlete with our Love Squad. She runs cross-country and track for Butler where the Bulldogs have been shaking up the national rankings with big performances this season. Here's here take:
HB: What does "Run Hard, Risk Heartbreak" mean to you?
ER: To run hard, you're going to have to set some goals for yourself. And if those goals are good enough, then they're going to break your heart as you work to achieve them.
Do you have an example in running or life that you'd like to share?
I am an aspiring doctor, that's my goal. I have worked so hard to get there, and recently got rejected from my dream medical school. Yes, it broke my heart, but I am going to move forward and try again.
How would you describe your relationship with running?
I absolutely love everything about running: the community, the culture, the hurt, the adrenaline, and the focus. I have dealt with a lot of injuries in the last 6 months causing me to really shift my focus. But there was nothing better than getting back to doing what I love, and the love seemed to grow a little bit every time I was forced to take time away.
When did you start running and why?
I started running in 7th grade. I picked cross country because I wasn't good enough at soccer and my competitive spirit needed something to do in the fall. I really wasn't great; I think I ran in converse and plaid Bermuda shorts. So, once I really put some time and thought into the sport, I found the improvement to be addicting and have stuck with it ever since.
Who keeps you running?
What do you love about running?
I love how you can directly see your hard work pay off in running. If you put the time and effort in, you will get better.
What was your favorite item you wore and why?
My favorite piece was the two-toned black and white singlet. It's a cool design and makes me feel fast.
