by ·Comments Off on 2013 Stockton Run Against Hunger

Stockton, California, is well known for being many things, like being the epicenter of the real estate boom then bust, the crime capital of the nation (a few years ago), and for being known as a city to go bankrupt in 2013.

There is at least one positive thing going on Stockton’s side–it’s dedicated people and the Stockton Run Against Hunger–hosted by the Emergency Food Bank (EFB)of Stockton.

Every year, this event gets bigger and better.  In 2013 they were estimating that about 5000 people will participate in this event.  This is good for the EFB since the proceeds for this all goes towards funding the acquisition of food and support for those that truly need help.

2013 Stockton Run Against Hunger (kids event)

2013 Stockton Run Against Hunger (kids event) (source: Forlanda)

If you just enjoy running, the course is very flat.  It makes for a good training run whether you are doing 5K or 10K.  Just be aware that if you are looking to do a PR, make sure you are close to the front since people don’t really pay attention to the pace placards that are intended to help people place themselves with the appropriate group at the starting area.

If you don’t put yourself in front, be ready to do a lot of “zigging” and ‘zagging”.  Regardless, it still makes for a good training run.

Next year I look forward to doing the 2014 Run Against Hunger.  If you are in the area, make sure to check it out.

by ·Comments Off on What is Indomitable Spirit?

In our curriculum, indomitable spirit simply represents the particular tenet of Taekwondo that helps us set high goals and go for them.

To give you a sense of what high goals are we take you back to 480 BC, to the Battle of  Thermopylae.  It was there that King Leonidas of Sparta led 300 of his troops to help block the advance of some 100,000 to 150,000 Persians troops.

Battle of Thermopylae

Battle of Thermopylae (source: historynow.wikia.com)

Although the Spartans were eventually defeated after two days of battle, you could say that King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans had indomitable spirit.  Basically, their goal was very high–to hold off the advancing Persian army with only 300 troops.  He held them off for 2 days–giving the Greeks time to escape before their cities were overrun.

In modern times, setting high goals means having some ambition to become successful in life.  It could mean studying to become a doctor, an engineer, or even starting your own business.  Whatever it is, it is a worthwhile goal which involves risks, but when the goal is reached, a great sense of accomplishment is felt.

When you want to exercise indomitable spirit, reaching your high goal may take some time.  Take smaller steps to reach your goal by completing objectives that put you closer to your goal.