Inspiring Story – Steven Way
As the dust settles on the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, it’s now time to get excited about it being the Gold Coast’s turn now. But as it is also a time to reflect on the great moments and inspiring stories that always emerge from these great events.
The story of Steve Way a marathon runner competing for England is one that stands out for me. He did not break any records actually he didn’t even win a medal, although he did run a personal best which earned him a creditable 10th place in the Commonwealth Games marathon event.
What is extraordinary about this story though is that up until late 2007 and at the age of 32, Steve Way was smoking 20 cigarettes a day, overweight and binging on junk food. In a defining moment he decided enough was enough and it was time to make a change. “I turned to road running to help me lose weight and take my mind off not smoking. As my running progressed over the months and years since then, it turned from just being a form of exercise to a competitive sport as I started to find myself towards the front of local races. Things have just progressed from there.” (news.com.au, 16 May 2014)
Enjoying better health Steve Way maintained a consistent approach to his active lifestyle. A journey that lead him at the age of 40 to represent England in the marathon at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. Now that’s got to be about as healthy as it gets!
Steve Way’s story is one that classically illustrates how a person can turn their health (and their life) around. Whether you run, swim , ride a bike, or whatever floats your boat. Maintaining an active lifestyle that involves regular exercise will keep you on a path of good health.
Set some goals to keep you on track. As Steve Way admits “whenever things get tough I always turn my thoughts to race day and how worthwhile it will all be…”. Achieving those goals will make you feel awesome and motivate you to get out there for more.
Read more on Steve Way and his Glasgow Commonwealth Games Marathon 2014 – Race Report