"Track Meet" - Odi Adelakun
We want to thank Odi Adelakun for sharing this with us and letting us get to hear her heart for running and the Lord!
How long have you been running?
I have been a runner for most of my life. I started running track and field in grade school and even broke some records. My school was able to come 3rd place in the district for the first time. I also ran cross country in middle school and high school. I slowed down in my running when we went back to Nigeria for High school due to development of asthma.
I started back running when we returned back to Canada and then got more interested to retrain and get back in shape when I was in University. I would run occasionally just to keep myself in shape. I have always had a childhood dream to run the Olympics and I still do. I started to get more serious in training for a marathon several years ago. I prayed that I will find a group of people who would inspire me to meet my dream of running. Two babies later, I finally made up my mind to go ahead and get into it.
How has God used running to change your life?
It was a real blessing to join Christian Runners last fall. Not only was I welcomed but I was even able to register for my first marathon for free due a free raffle that was given.
God has used my running to change my life in many ways. One day while running I was able pray with a total stranger that was crying while she was doing her run. She was listening to Christian music and was in the spirit praying and thanking God. I stopped and asked if she was okay and she hugged me and asked for me to pray. Right there in the middle of the running trail we prayed. I never saw her again after that day, but I know that I touched her life. Not only has God helped me to bless others but it has encouraged other friends and relatives to get healthy. Even my parents and siblings are getting themselves in shape.
What drew you to the ING Georgia Marathon?
What drew me to the ING marathon was the convenience. I live in Georgia and I am able to train with the roads here. My goal for the rest of my life is to continue to run the ING marathon and many other marathons. I feel this is only the beginning to my years in running. I still believe in my childhood dreams.
How has running impacted your life?
Running has helped me to keep fit, and find balance between being a wife, mother, sister, and daughter. My family knows that I need to time to take care of my health. I have been able to get back into better shape than I have ever been in my life.
How has running and your faith combined?
One thing I would like people to know about me is that I love the Lord and I cannot do anything without Him. He is my strength and all glory goes to Him first.
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