Given news reports of drugs and violence among athletes, it would seem that sports and spirituality don’t always go hand-in-hand. The reputation of professional sports teams in Indiana and in other states has taken a hit in recent years because of illegal activities among players. My friend, Tim Mitchinson, writing for the July 29, 2015 edition of Fit for Life, shares the story of a world-class athlete whose spirituality not only helps him succeed in sports and in life, but also brought him through a serious accident with a complete healing. Here’s Tim:
In the over 80 triathlons held in Illinois this year, people of all ages will stretch themselves physically and mentally while running, biking, and swimming alongside their competitors. And an increasing number of racers will also exercise their spirituality in these contests.
One such individual is world-class triathlete Patrick McCreary of Alton, who has just completed his 189th race in 28 years. His workouts are not just physical exercise, but a time of prayer. “Although I train year round and average 6 to 12 races a season, it is my relationship to the divine that keeps getting stronger every year. My training includes thinking of Bible verses and hymns when running, swimming or biking.”
McCreary focuses on three spiritual traits in his training and racing – peace, joy and power. “I don’t know anyone who is not seeking these qualities in their lives,” he told me. These three elements of spirituality could be called a “spiritual triathlon”. McCreary spoke further of the benefits…
