The People of Ted's Run for Literacy; Meet Tim McKay

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 an individual whose contribution to TRL helps to define the heart and soul of this fine event. The People of TRL is the brainchild of our Social Media chair, Carly Walsh.

Tim MacKay, father, educator, runner, Riders Fan (pwet), TRL board member, all-round nice guy.

It appears Tim McKay, TRL board member, is taking this opportunity to call out Race Director, Michael Bennett, for an epic race. Date, time, distance - TBD. Tim not only brings humour to the board, but also his passion for being an educator and runner (seems like a good fit for us).

Ted’s Run for Literacy - How long have you been running, and how did you start?
Tim McKay - I've been running on and off for several years but found my way back to regular running about four years ago. I now participate in maybe a dozen different races a year.

TRL - You're in a race with only one other person. Who is it, and do you beat them?
TM - It'd probably be with one of my siblings. I've coached and paced a few of them to PBs. Trying to beat each other has never been much fun so it would probably be a bad idea to start trying to do that now.
If I had to race, I mean really race, I'd run against that pesky Mike Bennett. We'd be joking and laughing and pestering each other for miles. It'd take a long race to find a winner.

TRL - Create your perfect post-race beverage; give it a name.
TM - Well, it sounds a bit boring, but I love water. Then a berry juice - any berry. Then a coffee. The triple finish - water, juice, coffee.

TRL - What's your best piece of advice for new runners?
TM - It's a simple truth that gives any runner a mental boost - "Any runner at any level is already far above average just for having shown up!"

TRL - What does Ted's Run for Literacy mean to you?
TM - I'm lucky, privileged in fact, to be able to enjoy the benefits of both a good education and good health. My education has benefitted me in developing a successful career in schools. My health supports me as a committed runner.
Ted's Run for Literacy brings both these worlds together, supporting the development of both literacy and fitness for youth who don't necessarily live with the privilege that I do. So I get to give back in a way, and contribute to extending the positive benefits of education and health where it really matters and is likely to make a real difference for youth. The TRL organizers are an amazing group of folks. It's not only rewarding to volunteer with this group, it's also a pile of fun. There it is - fun, rewarding, doing good work, and connected to literacy, learning, and fitness. What could be better? I mean, besides beating that pesky Mike Bennett in a race?

It's a good day to be alive.

Mike