Welcome to Greenville

Most people probably can't fit their entire life into a Mazda 3, but then again I'm not most people. Four weeks ago, I was barreling down I-20 in a car packed beyond reasonable capacity. I had just left my home, my job, my family, and many dear friends behind. All of this to chase a dream, and to have a deeper understanding of myself

It felt like something out of a Jack Kerouac novel, a young man On the Road on a journey to find a greater personal meaning in life. Except of course, I wasn't a beatnik following the jazz scene out west, but rather a long distance runner following a dream that has a chance to flourish out east.

I arrived in Greenville on a Monday morning. The Caldwell's provided the most warm, and receptive welcoming I have ever experienced, and made me feel as though Greenville had been my home for years. Words fail to adequately describe how receptive and helpful they have been in this process for me. I mean that in all honesty.

The last four weeks have essentially been a blur. Though I've devoted most of my time to training diligently for the USA half Marathon Championships in Duluth, Minnesota, getting to know my fabulous teammates, and settling in, I have been able to soak in much that Greenville has to offer.

There is a certain charm to this city that resonates highly with me. The downtown has a very inviting feel, with a lot of local pride and flavor that suites me nicely. Everyone has been receptive and kind. This is the quickly becoming the type of city I am proud to call home.

Despite an illness last week, I've been putting solid workouts together without fail. With Coach Caldwell's guidance, help from my teammates, and the generous support of ASICS, the Greenville Track Club, Soleus watches, and Boston Bill sunglasses, I feel as though I will be ready to toe the line with confidence at USAs.

Chass Armstrong

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