There is an old sporting event
Called the “Runs”
The participant engaged in this sport
Suddenly and with no prior training
Becomes an elite athlete
Resembling a Jesse Owens
Or a Doberman Pincher
A classic sprinter who obeys
Nothing but the explosion
Of the starter pistol
Who quickly displays skills
That make an Olympic champion
Look like a jogger
This event can take place
In the participant’s home
But it is optically spectacular
In a Wal-Mart parking lot
Dodging cars and hurdles of shopping carts
Unlike the safety of the Olympics
There is no celebrating gold medal
Only the lonely victory
And the silent satisfaction
Of a paper reward
Praised by the cheering
Flush at the finish line.
Ted Goodell
April 11, 2019