The Last Word

By George Hamilton | Posted: Tuesday June 7, 2022

Obstacle after obstacle after obstacle.

For the first time in a while I felt like I had a good day-to-day rhythm. Training was going well and I was staying on top of school work. This all changed when I contracted chronic fatigue syndrome. Now, I can’t run continuously for more than five minutes and I’m limited to one period of school per day.

The truth is, everyone has obstacles - something that gets in the way of progress. Whether it be an injury that gets in the way of playing sport, or a bad test result that gets in the way of an endorsement; obstacles are a part of life. Sh*t happens. Nobody deserves it. It’s just how it is. But as I’m sure you’ve heard, it’s not about how many times you get knocked down. It’s about how many times you get back up.

A few years ago I made the decision to fully commit to running. I expected national titles and records to come easily but instead, I was humbled. Injuries and cancellations due to the pandemic meant that I was never able to achieve the goals that I had set for myself. I was frustrated that I wasn’t where I wanted to be. I was frustrated that I always seemed to fall just short.

Through all of the frustrations and shortcomings, the most important thing I have learned has been to stay positive. Be proud of yourself. Recognise all the work that you have put in, knowing that you have done your best. Sometimes these things are just out of your control. And that’s okay. Whatever it is that you do, there is always another test, another competition, another thing to set your mind to. Try not to agonise over the past; instead focus on the future.

I encourage you to embrace obstacles. Embrace the challenges put in front of you because you’ll be a stronger person for it. Obstacles exist to challenge your resolve, to challenge your determination and most of all, to challenge your resilience. I encourage you to see these obstacles not as reasons to quit but as opportunities to grow. I encourage you to take on the obstacles of today, because they are preparing you for the bigger obstacles to come.

Robert Tew once said:

‘The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow.’

I wish everyone the very best, as we all overcome…

Obstacle after obstacle after obstacle.