Published: April 1, 2017
By: Amy Begley, Atlanta Track Club Coach
Running gives us so much. A stronger, healthier version of ourselves. Some time away to think or to escape real life. A different perspective of the roads and trails we pass every day. So how do you give back to the sport that changes so many lives?
Jerome Scales started running in 2006 in hopes of losing weight and living a healthier and happier life. Before long, Jerome was hooked. Running had become an important part of Jerome’s life. It wasn’t long after he first laced up his running shoes that he set a big goal for himself – running the Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon.
The pounds melted off. Jerome’s energy levels soared. Jerome continued running races, even marathons and an ultra-marathon. He discovered many benefits of being a runner, but Jerome wasn’t content with keeping those perks to himself. He wanted to help others find the same joy he had.
Jerome decided to get even more involved in the running community. Not long after becoming a runner himself, he volunteered as a run lead with Atlanta Track Club’s training programs. And for the past few years, Jerome has also served as a board member for the Club, helping to further its mission of creating an active and healthy Atlanta. Not only has Jerome improved his own life by taking that first step as a runner, he has touches countless other runners and walkers with his positive outlook and encouraging smile.
Back to my question: how do you give back to the sport of running? It doesn’t have to be a huge gesture. Sign up to volunteer at a local race. Encourage a co-worker who is just starting out as a runner. You can even make it a goal to smile or wave to runners passing you in your favorite park. Whatever you do, try to spread the positivity found in running, just like Jerome.