Fitness Friday....Athletes as Role Models

In light of what is going on lately with Lance Armstrong and the controversy that surrounds he and his team, I have been thinking more and more about athletes and their inevitable position as role models for those watching.  Sports historically has seen major athletes rise to the top and then fall due to their own vices either trying to continue to rise above the competition or letting their personal life get the best of them.  Unfortunately what ends up happening is that we tend to forget their achievements and remember their fall.  It leaves fans frustrated and many times let down.  It also leaves many with the question...Are there any athletes that still know how to play by the rules and step up as role models?

Of course is my response!  The tricky part is these athletes unfortunately don't get the press coverage that the the others do.  As part of being a ZOOMA Ambassador we were able to interview one such athlete.  She and her husband have been not only killing it on the running front but they are walking the walk they talk. 

Sara Hall, the better half of men's Olympic runner Ryan Hall, allowed us to ask her our burning questions we had for her.  We were able to ask her all about her training and personal life.  One thing that Sara and Ryan do that I have followed is their Steps Foundation. 

   Q: I have been following your Steps Foundation for a few years now after reading about it in a magazine.  I'm curious if beginning this foundation has changed your perspective on running and its potential impact on the world.  - Nancy from Living the Dream (http://www.littlefancynancy.blogspot.com)

A: Thanks for following Steps! Ryan and I feel very honored to have a community of supporters that are committed to running for a reason- bettering the health of undeserved communities world wide.  It has been amazing to see the tangible impact a race can have on a community halfway around the world, whether bringing basic health care or clean water.  It’s added to our motivation and given our running more depth to have a cause we care so much about.

This Foundation is doing amazing things...check it out!  Joining in and running for the Steps Foundation as an Ambassador is on my bucket list for 2013...I have always had a heart for Africa and this is a great way to join in on Sara and Ryan's foundation!!

See...there are athletes that can be role models for those out there.  There are many more too...let's focus on them and give them their time in the sun!!