The People of Ted's Run For Literacy; Meet Bob Nicol

The People of Ted's Run for Literacy is a 'behind the scenes' look at the many individuals that make up Ted's Run for Literacy; from committee members, to runners, to volunteers, to sponsors.  Every week leading up to Race Day we will interview another individual whose contribution to TRL defines the heart and soul of this fine event. The People of TRL is the brainchild of our Social Media chair, Carly Walsh.

Barefoort Bob coming down the chute.
Ted's Run for Literacy 2013
Photo credit unknown

You may know him as “Barefoot Bob,” but we know him as one of the greatest champions of Ted’s Run for Literacy. From helping raise awareness, to raising funds, to of course running TRL wouldn’t be the same without him.

Ted’s Run for Literacy: How long have you been running?
Bob Nicol: I have been running for about 5 years.

TRL: What’s your favourite post-run snack?
BN: My favorite post run food depends on the length. Shorter runs consist mainly of bananas and oranges - usually what ever is handy and quick. Long runs usually consist of pizza, hamburgers, something to get some of the calories back that I had used up. Also like burritos.

TRL: What’s the perfect song to run to?
BN: I really like "It's a Long Way to the Top" by AC/DC - love the bagpipes. But usually any high tempo music will do, usually on the heavier side though. Gets my feet going.

TRL: Favourite race and why.
BN: Favourite race is most definitely The Canadian Death Race. I really love the mountains and the atmosphere and serenity of the trail is just amazing. I have ran it the last three years and would love to run it every year.

Although Ted's Run is also very near and dear to my heart. I was lucky enough to have Ted as my running instructor at the Running Room prior to him passing away. One thing he instilled in me was the need to have fun on the run and that is something that I try to do with every run. Start and finish with the same smile on my face and encourage and help along the way.

TRL: Why is Ted’s Run important to you?
BN: Ted's Run is important to me for a few reasons: It is such an amazing cause. That would be the most important - to give the kids that need it that extra bit of fun, support, encouragement and help in their lives. It is important to give them that confidence and knowledge that, yes, they can succeed. Very inspiring. Secondly, to see the passion and fire in the eyes of the organizers and the teachers involved including Mike Bennett, Aldo Furlan, Connie Joy, and everybody else involved is amazing. It is my honour and privilege to help in anyway I can.

It's a good day to be alive.